ÂÜÀòÉç

Why did you choose ÂÜÀòÉç?

I chose ÂÜÀòÉç because of the opportunities afforded to me at a smaller university, but also because everyone was so helpful with all my questions that I had because I couldn't visit due to COVID-19.

Why did you choose your present major?

I absolutely adore environmental science. I love all the natural processes and the science behind how the Earth works. I find myself excited in my classes and looking forward to doing research of my own. Nature is my happy place and my major allows me to be a part of it all day, every day, and I couldn't be happier. 

Please briefly describe your Scholar's Day. 

My Scholar's Day was very different than the typical day, as I am an out-of-state student who had hers during COVID-19. I actually had my interview over Zoom, where I was sweating buckets behind the camera because I had very little idea what to expect. In the end, the interview went smoothly and I love getting to be a part of the actual on campus experience nowadays since I didn't get it for my own. 

Please describe your academic experience at ÂÜÀòÉç.

My academic experience has been wonderful so far. I'm only a sophomore but I am already taking classes within my specialization and really making connections with classmates and faculty. Just this year I've had several opportunities already to explore my interests with recommendations and help from faculty, like working with the rock collection on campus, and I couldn't be more grateful. 

What do you like best about ÂÜÀòÉç?

I love the small campus atmosphere. I wouldn't be where I am today without the small community here on campus, where you really get to know you faculty, and they get to know you. It's a huge advantage to be so connected to people around campus.

What clubs or organizations have you been a part of here at ÂÜÀòÉç? What kinds of things do they do?

I'm in several clubs on campus. I'm the president of Environmental Club, which I restarted as a freshman and we provide opportunities for folks to get involved with the environment and all things in that sphere. I'm also the vice-president of Beta Beta Beta (Tri-Beta) which is the biological honors society on campus, editor for the Insight, the student newspaper, and secretary for the Pride Alliance, a club designated for LGBT+ students on campus. I'm also a part of the Honors Program.

Do you have a job or jobs on campus? Please provide a brief description. 

I am a Diversity Ambassador! I work within the Center for Diversity and Inclusion to host events promoting and educating about diversity on campus, cultural identities, disability, sexuality, gender, etc. We also create and host workshops about various topics including sexism, racism, and ableism. As a DA, I'm a friendly face on campus for anyone to talk to about any issues or concerns they may be having, or if they simply want a better understanding about diversity and inclusion.

What piece of advice would you give to prospective students? 

Choosing a college or university is complicated and can be super stressful, but go with the one that makes the most sense for you, the one you feel like you bond with the most. Talk to prospective students, get their feel of the campus, and don't be afraid to ask questions. Things are never set in stone, and sometimes the future's we have planned change, and that's okay too.