In the smaller environment that a liberal arts college provides, I felt I would have better access to explore not only my social and academic interests but also to learn more about myself. As someone who did not know what I wanted to study in college, I am thankful for the interdisciplinary nature of Ĵý’s academics, which helped me discern the opportunities for a future career that I could see myself pursuing.
When I first toured the school, the beauty of the campus combined with the students’ friendly faces helped me solidify that I wanted to call Ĵý home for the next four years. Having now been at the school for almost three years, I have been able to create my own memories in these various picturesque locations as well as find genuine friends for life that have made my Ĵý experience all the better.
You’re involved in a number of activities. Which one is your favorite?
While I truly love all the activities that I am involved in, my favorite has to be Link Staff. This orientation program assembles a group of around 75 sophomores through seniors who will engage in mentoring 20–25 first-year students upon their arrival to campus.
The camaraderie of upperclassmen “Links” is truly unlike any other I have experienced. It unites individuals from all walks of campus life who share a common goal: to help first-year students feel the same love they all have for Ĵý and its surrounding community. I have met some of the funniest, most unique, and most outgoing people through this program, and this is only one side of it.
I have also loved sharing my knowledge and experiences with incoming first-years: from teaching them about Ĵý traditions to explaining how course registration works. Being a resource for students to come to if they have questions and knowing that I impacted their first moments at Ĵý in a positive way is heartwarming.
Have you had a pivotal moment, a mentor, or a defining moment?
I think all three of these fit into one example during my sophomore fall semester when I was in office hours with my microeconomics professor, Jyoti Khanna. I had intended to major in economics, but I realized that it was not something I truly wanted to pursue as my major. I was skeptical if my desire to work in the business field would remain possible if I decided to choose another route, but Prof. Khanna was able to talk me through this decision and helped me realize that there are other ways of achieving my future goals.
I began exploring courses in computer science, sociology, and psychology to figure out what else I could study. After taking a few introductory-level courses and speaking with students in each of these disciplines, I decided on a computer science major with a double minor in economics and sociology. I feel a lot more comfortable with my levels of commitment to each of these academic disciplines, and have been able to translate this to potential postgraduate experiences as I am applying for internships and jobs in the tech-based business world.
What is your favorite place on campus and why?
There are truly so many amazing spots on campus that I enjoy spending time at, but the spot that brings me the most joy is the upper campus region spanning from the Burke-Pichin Quad to the hiking trails. On a nice day, the quad will be filled with students playing volleyball, lying in hammocks, or sunbathing while listening to music. At night, individuals gather on the “” to watch some of the most beautiful sunsets I have ever seen.
I also recently had the chance to explore the trails behind the campus, and they are truly mesmerizing. I was able to lose myself in nature for about two hours with a friend and explore the various trails. We were lucky to find a few frozen lakes and even a cliff that helped me appreciate the outdoors even more. I have been able to use this area of upper campus to destress, as a break, or to enjoy some exercise with friends.
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