We Are Knox...

How would you describe campus life at Knox?
Campus life at Knox is incredibly involved and supportive. I find that there is always something going on, and there are a multitude of opportunities to get involved. I love that I've experienced a political science lecture, student music recital, improv performance, and talent show all in the same venue over the span of one term. Student voices are heard and respected no matter what the context.

What surprised you about Knox?
I felt as though I was a part of the community instantly, even as a prospective student. Everyone was genuine, passionate, and interested in everything they were doing, and I couldn't wait to have the same attitude. As I've become a part of the Knox community, I've realized that all of this is incredibly true. Now, four years after my first visit, I am also surprised by the fact that almost everything my admissions counselor told me I had the opportunity to explore while at Knox has happened: I'm incredibly involved on campus with leadership positions, I've eaten dinner at my academic adviser's house, I studied abroad for an entire year, and I'm currently pursuing an independent study. Eighteen-year-old me would be in disbelief if she knew she was going to accomplish so much in so short a time span.

Describe any independent study or research you have undertaken. What inspired you to pursue the independent study? 
I'm currently putting together an independent study with Jen Smith that focuses on dance improvisation and the body-mind connection, a concept that I was introduced to in her Somatic Practice for the Performing Artist class. I really grasped the material and wanted to take it a step further, and my involvement with her Theory and Improvisation class increased this desire. I'm so appreciative that I have the opportunity to pursue academic research in an area that I am interested in but not majoring in. To me, that is something so incredibly "Knox" and I am so appreciative of this opportunity.

What are your interests and hobbies?
I love reading and writing, choreographing, and watching movies. I also enjoy traveling and meeting new people. I'm also somewhat of a Marie Antoinette aficionado, having studied her a multitude of times in different French classes and really being drawn to her story and the role it played in the politics of Revolution-era France.

Can you elaborate on any study abroad you have done? 
I studied in Besancon, France through the Knox program that is offered there. Spending a year abroad was the most exciting, nerve-wracking, challenging, and humbling experience of my life. My language skills are at a level I never expected them to reach, and my appreciation for the French joie de vivre is immense. Living in a foreign country and traveling through Europe really increased my sense of self-awareness. I was able to visit several cities in France and five other countries while there, the entire time soaking up so much history and culture and sense of place. I think that everyone should study abroad for as long as possible. There is no better way to become more educated about yourself and the world than to live in a place that doesn't speak your native language.

What's the most important thing you've learned at Knox outside the classroom?
I've really learned how to be a leader. I've held various leadership positions on campus every term since spring term of my first year, which is an incredible opportunity. Every challenge has been a learning experience, and the skills I've acquired are going to be some of my strongest assets going into the job market.