During the first semester, how did learning about the College of Humanities and its disciplines help you frame your academic interests?

The College of Humanities and its disciplines helped frame my academic interest through resources that helped my ideas translate to real world research. When entering college, I did not expect to gain a platform and assistance with my ideas. I was able to transform my jumbled ideas into a clear research project thanks to the disciplines and help from the college.

How has being part of the Humanities Scholars program impacted your time at the university?

This program helped me find community, explore interests, and prove to myself that I can find a topic and dive in headfirst. This program was my favorite class so far; my peers and professor have built a space where I belong and have a voice. It has made my time at this university an amazing and inclusive experience.

What is one of the most impactful lessons or experiences you had during your time as a Humanities Scholar?

An impactful lesson I learned was to allow myself to ask questions. In the academic space, it can become competitive, but this class has taught me that true curiosity and questioning is where true learning happens. This helped me not only in school but in every aspect of my life.

Can you describe how the program's director has contributed or influenced your college experience?

Lepa Piquk Marinkovski changed my life; she was supportive and believed in me before I believed in myself. She does not see me as a student but as a human first. What I mean by this is that my mental health came first for her too. I learned that to have my best work, I had to be my best self, even if that meant taking a break. Anyone who is lucky enough to have her as a professor will learn that kindness is the most important act anyone can do, even in an academic space.

In what ways have you seen improvements in your critical thinking, writing, and problem-solving skills since joining the program?

I have seen improvement in my understanding of real-world problems, which helped me in my personal life, and on the debate team. My peers have exposed me to ideas I didn't know, and my professor guided me to always question what happens around me. This new skill brought an amazing new perspective to my life.

How has the Humanities Scholars program influenced your academic and career aspirations?

In all my classes, I can connect it back to my Humanities Scholars experience, which has shown me the importance of these durable skills. In other classes, I now feel more comfortable asking my professors for help. I am confident in setting healthy boundaries with my workload and in asking questions. Humanities Scholars inspired me to dream big once outside of college; this is the most empowering class I have taken.

Anything else you would like to share about the Humanities Scholars program?

I wished this class could be taken for all four years. I love it so much!

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During the first semester, how did learning about the College of Humanities and its disciplines help you frame your academic interests?

Learning about the College of Humanities is what made me firm in my decision to pursue a BA in Writing and Rhetoric. I feel that the humanities curriculum's emphasis on nuance, diverse perspectives, and participation would provide me with a more fulfilling education than other programs may.

How has being part of the Humanities Scholars program impacted your time at the university?

Humanities Scholars has given me a community to not just share my own thoughts and writing, but to be able to have real, nuanced discussions about anything and everything. Everyone has been incredibly supportive and encouraging about the work we do as students and the thoughts we share. It has helped me feel more confident about sharing my work and pursuing my interests. Every week I find myself learning something new or gaining a new perspective.

Can you describe how the program's director has contributed or influenced your college experience?

Lepa is an incredibly talented and passionate professor. She has been nothing but curious and encouraging, always asking important and thoughtful questions to keep us talking and researching. In navigating the experiences that come with being a transgender person, she has been consistently supportive and helpful, both in my personal life and in how this aspect of my identity informs my research.

In what ways have you seen improvements in your critical thinking, writing, and problem-solving skills since joining the program?

All those skills have improved drastically. The combination of unique perspectives from my peers, lessons from my professor, and the freedom to pursue issues we're passionate about has all been incredibly beneficial.

How has the Humanities Scholars program influenced your academic and career aspirations?

Humanities Scholars encouraged me to participate in my community and passions when I had previously been discouraged by other educational institutions and my own anxieties. Although the latter has not fully gone away (nor do I think it ever fully will), it's allowed me to push through those anxieties.

 

 

Learn more about Humanities Scholars Director Lepa Piquk Marinkovski