We Are Knox...

How would you describe campus life at Knox?
The people are great. I always see someone I know when I go places like the Gizmo or the Rodge Lodge.

What surprised you about Knox?
It's so small and in rural Illinois but attracts people from all over the world. Its alumni have unbelievable accomplishments under their belts and never forget where they came from.

How would you describe academic life at Knox?
It can be difficult. Every course I've taken challenged me in some way, but also gave me some new insight or way to look at a certain issue or problem.

Tell us about a memorable class, experience, professor, or assignment and what you learned from it.
I took Comparative Politics of the Middle East spring term my freshman year, with Professor Bob Seibert. That course fascinated me and began my obsession with the Middle East. I think it's safe to say that course set my path for the rest of my time here. I studied abroad in the Middle East and am doing an Honors project involving it, as well. I doubt those things would have happened without that class.

Is there a professor that has had a significant impact on your career path?
Yes. Multiple professors in the Political Science Department have helped me think about career plans in different ways. Also, I've had a few professors who would lace little "life lessons" into their lectures. At first I wouldn't pay too much attention to them, but that changed pretty quickly because they were always extremely insightful, no matter how small. Definitely worth keeping in the back of your mind.

What's the most important thing you've learned at Knox outside the classroom?
Good friendships are probably the most important part of a good life. The people in your life are essential to your successes and your failures. I've been lucky enough to find the ones that contribute to my successes.

What campus jobs have you had while at Knox?
I've been a TA, a note-taker for the CTL (Center for Teaching & Learning), and have helped a professor with a research grant.

Can you tell us more about your study abroad experience?
I went on an SIT program to Oman, the UAE, and Qatar. I learned Arabic, lived with an Omani family, conducted independent research, and studied politics in the Middle East.