We Are Knox...

What about Knox stood out during your college search?
The people. It could be the Midwestern hospitality, but people were very friendly and helpful.

How would you describe academic life here? 
It can be challenging to balance everything, but it is well worth it. I once had someone tell me Knox undergrad was more difficult than some graduate programs.

Describe any independent study or research you have undertaken. What inspired you to pursue it?
I have written a few articles about the Lincoln-Douglas Debates. I am also currently working with Jason Helfer and Stephen Schroth on developing a curriculum for 6th through 12th graders that teachers can use to make learning about the Lincoln-Douglas Debates more engaging and relevant to students. I am a history buff and actually enjoy reading about the past. These debates are very important to Knox and United States history. Yet, few people know much about them.

What campus jobs have you had?
I was an environmental hygienist for two years. This was a fancy way of saying I was a custodial assistant. I enjoyed working but waking up at six in the morning can be difficult at times. I have also worked as a lab assistant.

What activities do you participate in?
Knox Wrestling, Best Buddies, Beta Theta Pi, TRIO, Lo Nuestro, Reading Buddies, and help coach several wrestling clinics. I have become better at time management and taking advantage of the opportunities presented before me.

Which classes have been your favorites?
I have enjoyed all my Edu classes. I didn't come to Knox to be a teacher. Nevertheless, I took a class that required observation hours in an elementary school, and from the first day I enjoyed it. I found something I enjoy doing and hope to do for a very long time. I have had the opportunity to teach ages as early as four to high school teenagers. I even taught special education classes that showed me a perspective and appreciation for teaching as a profession.

Is there a professor that has had a significant impact on your education?
I want to thank the whole Education Department. However, Professor Schroth has done so much for his students, and I would not have been as successful as I am today. He convinced me to declare elementary education [as my major], and I have not looked back since.

What is your favorite place on campus? Off campus?
My favorite place on campus is the Gizmo. It is open late and always full of people. I have several off-campus places that I like to visit. The antique mall has a great selection of licorice candy, and Galesburg Youth Athletic Club is where I train with some of the Galesburg youth.

Since you came to Knox, how have you changed?
I think many of my friends would be surprised that I have been in a small play and a dance show (Terp). I don't think many of them saw me as an actor or dancer in high school.

What surprised you about Knox?
How many different nationalities, ethnicities, and overall diversity. I have become close friends with people from China, Nepal, the Philippines, Washington, Illinois -- pretty much all over the nation and the world.