The best way to understand a campus is to see the students who are living there. Our student interns are just a sample of the ƽ population — take a look at what experiences they have had so far during their ƽ careers.
Want to find a student majoring in a specific department or involved in a certain extracurricular activity? Use CTRL+F (PC users) or CMD+F (Mac users) on your keyboard to search.
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Senior Interviewer
Major(s)/Concentration(s): anthropology with a concentration in film and media studies
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: content creator
Off-Campus Study: The Film and TV School of the Academy of Performing Arts (FAMU) in Prague, Czech Republic (spring 2025)
Why I love ƽ: ƽ fosters an environment that allows you develop a path specific to your personal and professional growth."
Senior Interviewer
Major(s)/Concentration(s): psychology and Spanish double major
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: varsity swim and dive team, ƽ Advocates, community advisor (CA)
Off-Campus Study: CIEE Buenos Aires, Argentina (fall 2024)
Research: "Cultural Mechanisms of Pain Disparities"
Why I love ƽ: I love ƽ because the community is so supportive! I have learned so much from peers, faculty, and staff across all disciplines. I am so grateful to be surrounded by such kind, intelligent, and fun people!
Senior Interviewer
Major(s)/Concentration(s): English and anthropology double major
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: ultimate frisbee; synchronized swimming; Creative Writing Club (co-founder and president); LINK Mentor; The Scarlet and Black (staff writer and features editor); English Student Educational Policy Committee (SEPC)
Off-Campus Study: DIS in Copenhagen, Denmark (fall 2024); CET - Jewish Life In Central Europe in Vienna, Budapest and Krakow (spring 2024)
Research: Mentored Advanced Project (English): “Dickens in the Archives” (summer 2024)
Why I love ƽ: Our professors are so thoughtful, dedicated, and invested in their students, and I have learned so much from their unique and diverse classes. Most of all, I love the people and the tight-knit community! I love how engaged and passionate my peers are, and how much I've grown from my time in classes, extracurriculars, and deepening relationships with friends.
Senior Interviewer
Major(s)/Concentration(s): sociology with a concentration in education studies
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: Sociology Department (course mentor, course grader, and research assistant); Sociology Student Educational Policy Committee (SEPC Member); Writing, Reading, and Speaking Center (Writing Mentor); Liberal Arts Prison Program (Writing Mentor)
Off-Campus Study: University of Amsterdam (spring 2025); course-embedded travel to Vence, France for the religious class "Everyday Contemplation" (spring 2024)
Research: “Health Class Gave You an Eating Disorder? Thin/Fat Dualism and U.S. Health Education” (Education Department) “What Not to Expect When Expecting: Understanding Postpartum Depression Among Incarcerated Mothers” (Original research, Gender, Women’s, and Sexuality Studies) Motherhood and Social Networks (Research Assistant, Sociology Department)
Why I love ƽ: A collection of students and faculty from all over the U.S. and globe creates the most special community of people, and it is in that community that I derive such love for ƽ. I have met my best friends, brilliant mentors, and have been able to live among the most curious and compassionate people during my time at ƽ. I love being a part of a community that encourages such intentional learning and growth, both as a student and as an active member of society.
Senior Interviewer
Major(s)/Concentration(s): economics major with a concentration in statistics
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: ƽ listening project; Reading, Writing, and Speaking Center (writing mentor); Pioneer Capital Investments club (PCI); Senior Interviewer
Research: In my most recent economics course, a seminar in economic history, I researched and modeled the impact of contractionary monetary policy in 1979 on the American farming sector. As a native Iowan, I have always taken an interest in farming and have gotten to explore that interest through agricultural economics research at ƽ.
Why I love ƽ: I love ƽ because of the close relationships that I have built with my professors. I have never been just a number on a professor’s class roster. They all care about you and how you are doing in their class. At ƽ, you get to work side-by-side with world-class educators who are truly invested in your success. Another reason I love ƽ is the diversity that it fosters in a place you would never expect to find such diversity! I have friends and classmates from all over the US, and the rest of the world.
Senior Interviewer
Major(s)/Concentration(s): biochemistry and Spanish double major
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: varsity swim and dive team; Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion representative
Off-Campus Study: studied the healthcare system in Santiago, Chile (summer 2024)
Research: "Effects of N5-Formyltetrahydrofolate Binding on Conformation of E.coli Methylenetetrahydrofolate Reductase (MTHFR) through HDX and LC-MS" under Professor Elaine Marzluff (summer 2025)
Why I love ƽ: If home is, where the heart is then my home is the people of ƽ. Ever since my first day on campus, I have been welcomed by people in the community. Whether that is being encouraged to take on exciting research along with our wonderful faculty, cheered on in water by the swim and dive team, or by simply being able to share and learn about different cultures so openly. ƽ has been my home.
Senior Interviewer
Major(s)/Concentration(s): biology with a concentration in neuroscience
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: PCPOP mentor; Black Cultural Center program coordinator
Off-Campus Study: internship Cape Town, South Africa (summer 2024)
Why I love ƽ: What I love the most about ƽ is its unwavering dedication to nurturing the academic, professional, and personal development of its students. ƽ offers a community rooted in support, making the campus feel like a home away from home!
Senior Interviewer
Major(s)/Concentration(s): anthropology and economics double major with a concentration in global development studies
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: International Student Organization cabinet (ISO); IPOP mentor; NSO ambassador; SGA chair of Diversity; Equity and Inclusion (DEI); Wilson Center Catalyst Program coordinator; Rosenfield Program committee; SGA financial board; Brazilian jiu-jitsu
Off-Campus Study: 2 internships in London funded by ƽ
Research: field-research in India funded by the Rosenfield Program; "The Implication of Flooding in Chad" with Doctor Brottem; "The Cultural Risks of Rising Sea Levels in the Marshall Islands" with Doctor Roper and Doctor Ng
Why I love ƽ: ƽ is a truly special place – it encourages you to think deeply, question what you believe, and engage with what matters to you (often for the first time). It's a small, but incredibly diverse community where classrooms, events, and even dining areas bring people together from all corners of the world. Most importantly, everyone has something special to contribute. As an international student, ƽ makes living so far from home feel worthwhile – our community reflects the dreams, ideas, and convictions we bring.
Senior Interviewer
Major(s)/Concentration(s): studio art and anthropology double major
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: Men’s Cross Country (captain); Men’s Track & Field; Social Media and Communications Intern for XCTF; Gateway Bible Study
Research: in-class research: how the form of the human foot impacts the biomechanical costs and benefits of minimalist vs. “super shoe” running
Why I love ƽ: I love the opportunities I have at ƽ to better myself athletically, academically, and artistically. My teammates, friends, and professors at ƽ all want to see me succeed, and each one supports me in my goals!”
Senior Interviewer
Major(s)/Concentration(s): political science and economics double major with a concentration in Latin American studies
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: varsity basketball; Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC); teach for America ignite fellowship; ƽ Middle School mentors
Off-Campus Study: IES Abroad “Sustainable Development and Equitable Living” in Granada, Spain (summer 2024)
Research: spring ’23 Plus-Two on Global Abortion Rights; Spring ’25 Directed Research on Religion and Political Participation in Indonesia; Fall ’25 MAP on Public Attitudes and De-democratization
Why I love ƽ: I love the warm and exciting community that I have found at ƽ. I love that the open curriculum encourages me to pursue my academic interests in an individual manner, and I have found that there are so many wonderful people and resources in place to help me find my way.
Senior Interviewer
Major(s)/Concentration(s): political science with a concentration in global development studies
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: Latin jazz ensemble pianist; ƽ advocates; global development studies Student Educational Policy Committee (SEPC); intramural soccer; Chaverim (Jewish Student Organization)
Off-Campus Study: SIT climate change program in Morocco, Nepal, and Ecuador (spring 2025)
Research: "Build a Better ƽ 2030", a city development project facilitated by Professor Montgomery Roper
Why I love ƽ: As a political science and global development studies student, I’ve found ƽ’s ability to bring global perspectives to a small-town setting truly remarkable. Despite its location in the “middle of nowhere,” the college connects students to the wider world, through international student cultural events, global speakers, and, in my own experience, courses like Jewish Life in Early 20th Century Europe, which concluded with travel to Vienna, Krakow, and Budapest. At the same time, ƽ fosters meaningful connections with the local community. As a musician, I’ve been fortunate to be invited by faculty and staff to perform around town, including at local restaurants and regional bluegrass festivals, opportunities that reflect the college’s strong sense of place and community engagement.
Senior Interviewer
Major(s)/Concentration(s): economics and gender, women's and sexuality studies double major
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: Vietnamese Student Organization (VSA); Pioneer Capital Investment; writing mentor; International Pre-Orientation Program (IPOP) mentor (2024); Catalyst mentor; macroeconomics mentor
Off-Campus Study: University College of London, UK (spring 2025)
Why I love ƽ: The sense of community. No matter the student, teacher, or staff, everyone here makes sure you succeed and feel like you belong.
Major(s)/Concentration(s): biological chemistry with a concentration in science, medicine, and society (SMS)
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: varsity cross country; varsity track & field
Research: Mentored Advanced Project (chemistry): “Synthesis of Thiol Phosphonadimates” (summer 2024)
Why I love ƽ: ƽ gives me an opportunity to have a really balanced student-athlete experience. I love how attentive professors are to each student's individual needs. The small town feel of ƽ is something I’ve never experienced before, and I love it!”
Major(s)/Concentration(s): psychology with concentrations in statistics and education
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: volleyball club; ƽ Preschool staff
Off-Campus Study: DIS in Copenhagen, Denmark (fall 2024)
Research: Dynamic Learning Lab in New York City (summer 2024); summer research assistant at the Gladstone Institute in San Francisco
Why I love ƽ: I love ƽ because it makes me feel at home. The peers and professors are there to help and everyone wants you to succeed at doing what you love. The open curriculum makes it easy for you to carve your own path and the different perspectives of all the students helps you feel as if you are a part of the larger world outside of rural Iowa. The community support is always felt in ƽ and whenever I talk about the college it puts a smile on my face.
Major(s)/Concentration(s): political science with a concentration in environmental studies
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: Pioneer Capital Investments club (PIC); basketball club (founder)ċ
Research: political science research: "AI and Climate Change Politics in California" (summer 2025)
Why I love ƽ: The ƽ community is second to none: everyone is so friendly and welcoming as well as intelligent and interesting! You never know what you might learn walking around campus and talking to people.
Major(s)/Concentration(s): mathematics and economics
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: Peer Connections Pre-Orientation Program (PCPOP) mentor; run club (treasurer); Asian American Association (AAA); math lab tutor
Off-Campus Study: DIS in Copenhagen, Denmark (spring 2025)
Research: Mentored Advanced Project (math): “Random Walks” (summer 2024)
Why ƽ: I love the close-knit community! Everyone is so friendly and welcoming. The small class sizes and the open curriculum really give students a chance to explore their interests and connect with professors.
Major(s)/Concentration(s): sociology and theatre
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: harp lessons; ƽ Press editor; ƽ GOGUE editor; box office and house manager
Why I love ƽ: I have met so many incredible people here and lots of people know me.
Majors/Concentrations: economics
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: Nerf @ Noyce; Duels and Games (DAG); Union of ƽ Student Dining Workers (UGSDW)
Why I love ƽ: The community and open curriculum.
Major(s)/Concentration(s): computer science
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: guitar, bass, soccer, and trying new things
Why I love ƽ: I love ƽ because it is welcoming. If you really want to, you can make your dreams come true. People here are friendly, and the weather is nice.
Major(s)/Concentration(s): mathematics and Japanese
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: ultimate frisbee; Pioneer Capital Investment (PCI); Vietnamese Student Association (VSA)
Research: directed research, "Understanding the effect of lattice geometry and granular entanglement on structural resilience."
Why I love ƽ: I have formed more meaningful connections and found more opportunities for growth here at ƽ than anywhere else. Academically, small classroom size means more resources and attention from faculty are invested in us students. Socially, we are welcomed into a supportive and diverse community, where even the most peculiar personalities can find a place to fit in. ƽ doesn’t just offer a highly esteemed education, but also a chance to be you and ten times yourself.
Major(s)/Concentration(s): physics and Chinese
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: varsity football; chess; volleyball club; bird club
Why I love ƽ: The small classes, amazing professors, and peacefulness that comes with living in a small town.
Major(s)/Concentration(s): economics and political science
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: varsity soccer; Pioneer Capital Investment club (PCI); athletic training room (employee)
Off-Campus Study: internship at Ecuadorian NGO CLPG (summer 2023)ċ
Why I love ƽ: I love ƽ because of its tight, inclusive, and supportive community. Everyone’s eager to learn new things and share experiences. The numerous activities one can get involved in keep students engaged.
Major(s)/Concentration(s): gender, women's & sexuality studies (GWSS) and French with a concentration in science, medicine, & society (SMS)
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: dance ensemble; [Weekend] team leader; New Student Orientation (NSO) ambassador; French assistant teacherċ
Off-Campus Study: Wellesley-in-Aix in Aix-en-Provence, France (spring 2025)ċ
Research: Mentored Advanced Project (French): “The Historical Origins of Race and Racism” (summer 2024)
Why I love ƽ: I love the close relationships that are the norm for students to have with their professors. The support that comes from this, both academic and otherwise, makes all the difference as well as opens many opportunities.
Major(s)/Concentration(s): computer science and economics
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: guitarist and pianist, jiu jitsu, swing dance, ƽ Outdoor Recreation Program (GORP)
Research: analyzed how certain political, social, and economic characteristics impede growth in developing nations (global development studies)
Why I love ƽ: I love ƽ for its strong sense of community, cozy small-town vibes, and its open curriculum, which has allowed me to explore a wide range of disciplines.
Major(s)/Concentration(s): biology and French
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: cross country; track and field; Students for Reproductive Justice; Line Dance club
Why I love ƽ: I love ƽ because “community” is not just something that goes on the admissions fliers. The second I stepped foot on campus I felt at home and knew that this was my place and these were my people. I was drawn here by the academics and the cross country and track teams and truly feel like I have found my second home. I hope to help prospective students feel embraced by the ƽ community!
Major(s)/Concentration(s): political science with a concentration in education studies
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: Almost Always Improv; Students for Reproductive Justice; Sexual Health Information Center (SHIC); Rosenfield Committee
Off-Campus Study: Global Learning Program trip for the class “Sugar, Science, Slavery: Visualizing modernity in the Americas" to Cuba, Brazil, and New Orleans (spring 2024); Queen Mary University London (planned spring 2027)
Why I love ƽ: The people make the place! From professors to the student body, ƽians are kind, genuine, and down to earth!
Major(s)/Concentration(s): intended Spanish and sociology
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: women's ultimate Frisbee; sustainability coordinator; volleyball club; ƽ underground magazine
Why I love ƽ: I love ƽ because of the kind and intelligent people I’ve met here. I learn so much from my friends, teammates, peers, and role models. I feel very grateful to be a part of this community!
Major(s)/Concentration(s): mathematics
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: pickleball club; reunion worker; board member of Harambee club
Why I love ƽ: I love having the opportunity to get to know so many lovely people, to chat with professors, and to go for walks/runs around campus. For me, ƽ is a comforting place to navigate the academic and social aspects of college, with its alumni care packages, finals study breaks, and therapy dog events. I genuinely cannot think of a place I’d be happier to spend these four years.
Major(s)/Concentration(s): psychology with a concentration in neuroscience
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: Balinese ensemble; Trans at ƽ (TAG)
Why I love ƽ: I love the people at ƽ the most! The faculty and staff are super intelligent but first and foremost they’re open and kind. The students are the same way – everyone is so unique in their experiences, interests, and backgrounds! I love to meet new people in my classes (and outside of them) and hear their stories.
Major(s)/Concentration(s): gender, women's, and sexuality studies (GWSS) and history with a concentration in education studies
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: shelf awareness (president); mock trial; gender, women's, and sexuality studies Student Educational Policy Committee (SEPC); New Student Orientation (NSO) ambassador; Swing Dance club; Contra Dance club; Students for Reproductive Justice (board member); National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)
Why I love ƽ: I love the people at ƽ the most! The faculty and staff are super intelligent but first and foremost they’re open and kind. The students are the same way – everyone is so unique in their experiences, interests, and backgrounds! I love to meet new people in my classes (and outside of them) and hear their stories.
Majors/Concentrations: economics and psychology
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: varsity cross country; varsity track & field
Why ƽ: I love ƽ because it is a place that nurtures both your academic curiosity as well as your passions. Here I have met some of the coolest people I’ve ever known, and I look forward to meeting many more.
Major(s)/Concentration(s): psychology and history
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: ƽ Advocate; PCPOP mentor; writing mentor; crisis advocate; LINK mentorċ
Off-Campus Study: University of Edinburgh in Scotland (spring 2026)
Research: summer research @ Carnegia Mellon University on racial diversity of the media that children ages 4 to 6 consume; cognitive psychology research under Professor Conway; social psychology research under Professor Vossoughi
Why I love ƽ: I love ƽ because the tight-knit community felt like home from the very beginning and continues to feel that way. I’m so grateful to have a place where it feels like everyone is in my corner, and to try to be that person for others here at ƽ.
Major(s)/Concentration(s): sociology
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: social innovation student researcher; Reading, Writing, and Speaking Center (writing mentor); LINK mentor; sociology student grader; dancerċ
Off-Campus Study: University College of London in London, UK (fall 2024)
Research: Mentored Advanced Project (GWSS): “Feminist Mental Health Justice and the Prison Industrial Complex” (summer 2024); Map the System: “Access to Mental Healthcare in Rural Iowa” (2023-2024)ċ
Why I love ƽ: There are so many reasons that I love ƽ, but it’s truly the people that make it what it is! There are so many genuinely caring, passionate, supportive, and just overall wonderful people here who empower each other in all aspects of our lives. In one word, the ƽ community is beautiful.
Major(s)/Concentration(s): economics with a concentration in statistics
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: conference operations assistant; event coordinator; Young, Gifted, and Black (YGB) choir; Black Student Union's first year representative and treasurer; volleyball club; Diwali participant
Off-Campus Study: Institute of Education Sciences (IES) Milan, Italy (Fall 2025)
Why I love ƽ: I love ƽ for its small class sizes, beautiful campus, engaged community, and the dedication of its professors. I have learned many moral lessons here, and I know there are more to come.
Major(s)/Concentration(s): English
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: Saints Rest coffee house (baker); B&S newspaper (writer); ƽ Symphony Orchestra (Oboe); art; dance; theatre; biking
Off-Campus Study: Trinity in Rome (planned spring 2025)
Why I love ƽ: I love ƽ for many reasons, but particularly for the connections that I’ve been able to make. I have met some of my best friends here and traveled to some amazing places because of these friendships. I am so grateful to have been able to surround myself with such kind and loving friends!
Major(s)/Concentration(s): anthropology and economics
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: community advisor (CA); Japanese Student Association (JSA); badminton club
Off-Campus Study: Project Horseshoe Farm in Greensboro, Alabama (externship program, spring 2025)
Why I love ƽ: I love how diverse and inclusive the ƽ community is! I am an international student and sometimes have a feeling of loneliness being far away from home. However, because I chose ƽ, I can feel secure and welcomed even in those times, with all the people in this community who have and value different backgrounds.
Major(s)/Concentration(s): economics and Spanish
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: ƽ percussion ensemble; Swing Dance club; Contra Dance club; Overbooked book club
Off-Campus Study: IES Abroad in Madrid, Spain (spring 2026)
Why I love ƽ: The main reason I love ƽ is because of the supportive community. Everyone on campus is so accepting of who you are and wants to see you succeed. I also love how I do not have to limit myself as ƽ gives me the opportunity to pursue all of my many different interests.
Major(s)/Concentration(s): studio art
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: basketball club
Why I love ƽ: I love ƽ because there are a lot of academic and carrier opportunities. Last spring semester, I participated in the externship program which I believe is unique to ƽ and I was able to pursue and see what a life in nonprofit work looks like by shadowing a ƽ alum. Another thing that I love about ƽ is the friends that I have made, and basketball club.
Major(s)/Concentration(s): biological chemistry and French
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: tenor in ƽ Singers; pickleball club; mailroom cashier; pioneer bookstore cashier
Off-Campus Study: Hamilton in France (2026-27 academic year)
Research: "The Role of Heavy Metals in Bones as Trace Evidence"; "Effects of Low Concentration Salinity Stress on Arabidopsis Seedlings"
Why ƽ: I love ƽ because it’s a place where I feel truly seen, supported, and encouraged to grow and build my character - not just through amazing academics, but by being surrounded by open-minded and intellectually curious people. As someone whose home is on the other side of the globe, I appreciate how ƽ creates a home-like environment by allowing me to explore new interests and build on the passions I began developing back home. It’s a community that values authenticity, self-discovery, and connections – all of which have been essential to my growth here
Major(s)/Concentration(s): philosophy and political science
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: volleyball competitive team; PALS volunteer
Why I love ƽ: ƽ is the perfect place to learn and discover myself. Passionate students and faculty members always push and encourage me to achieve my goals. Although our campus is small, numerous group activities create a strong sense of belonging. Above all, the beautiful starry nights are always breathtaking.
Major(s)/Concentration(s): undeclared
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: Students for Justice in Palestine (SJP); Student Environmental Committee (SEC); athletics event staff; Union of ƽ Student Dining Workers (UGSDW); Anarchy Club
Off-Campus Study: intended in Havana Cuba (spring 2026)ċ
Why I love ƽ: I love ƽ because I love the people. ƽ has a beautiful campus with a friendly community and wide-ranging social opportunities. At ƽ, I’ve befriended a lot of incredible people who inspire and empower me.
Major(s)/Concentration(s): computer science with a concentration in digital studies
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: theatre; Volleyball club; K-Drama club; Spencer Grill worker; computer science grader; Turkish tutor; digital studies Student Education Policy Committee (SEPC)
Why I love ƽ: What I love most about ƽ is the close-knit community, I always enjoy seeing familiar, friendly faces around campus. I really appreciate the cultural diversity which creates a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere for everyone. I also really like the freedom to choose my classes also lets me explore interests beyond my major!
Major(s)/Concentration(s): political science with concentrations in policy studies and peace and conflict studies
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: ƽ Advocate; volunteer at ƽ Historical Museum; Japanese Cultural Association
Why I love ƽ: I love that ƽ is a very inclusive community. As an international student, I feel that my identity is respected and celebrated both inside and outside the classroom. I also love how professors are very friendly and supportive. I love having conversations in office hours; it always makes me excited to learn more!
Major(s)/Concentration(s): Spanish and religious studies with a concentration in Latin American studies
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: ƽ mock trial team; volunteering at events around campus
Why ƽ: The combination of small class sizes, passionate professors, and a self-designed course schedule make for an incredible learning environment. That, as well as the friendliness of ƽ’s population, both in and off campus.
Major(s)/Concentration(s): mathematics and anthropology
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: Latin American ensemble; math lab tutor; mathematics Student Educational Policy Committee (SEPC); voice lessons; volunteering around ƽ and Iowa; expert on local ƽ playgrounds
Off-Campus Study: CIEE liberal arts program in Buenos Aires, Argentina (fall 2024); Global Learning Program (GLP) trip for the class “Living well and finding meaning in a global world” to Ecuador and Japan (spring 2023); travel to Mexico with Latin American ensemble (spring 2024)
Why ƽ: I love the community I’ve found at ƽ! Everyone looks out for each other. There are so many activities and events to be involved in. I feel lucky to be part of the positive and supportive learning environments that ƽ fosters.
Major(s)/Concentration(s): mathematics with a concentration in education studies
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: Con Brio a capella group; middle school art club; jiu jitsu; student advisor for ƽ Science Project (GSP)
Why ƽ: I love ƽ because of the many people here that support my development as a student and as a person. My peers and professors encourage me to be the best version of myself, academically and personally.
Major(s)/Concentration(s): chemistry and economics
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: mock trial; ƽ community meal student coordinator; social innovation student coordinator; Asian American Association (AAA)
Off-Campus Study: "Theorizing Dance and Language" in Prague and London (spring 2025)
Why ƽ: ƽ has so many resources for students to explore what they’re truly passionate about from the GLP program to work-studies that allow you to get to work with communities outside ƽ. I love getting to apply what I’ve learned outside of the classroom.
Major(s)/Concentration(s): intended computer science and anthropology
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: Friends of Bob’s Underground (president); bouldering; guitar lessons; art; movie lover; board game player; walking enthusiast
Why ƽ: it’s a cozy community that can feel like family. Every day feels a little different and all the fun and even strange traditions you come across make many random days memorable and brings a lot of people together in surprising ways.
Major(s)/Concentration(s): economics and English
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: African-Caribbean Student Union (ACSU), Black Student Union (BSU), varsity swim and dive, Pioneer Capital Investments (PCI), community advisor (CA), intramural Basketball.
Research: Mentored Advanced Project (history): “History of concerts at ƽ 1960-2001” of (summer 2025), “Efficacy of copper sulphate in treating harmful microbial communities in water” (biology) (Fall 2023), “Examining the rationality of marriage proposals and dating behavior” (economics) (Fall 2023)
Why ƽ: The opportunity to engage in a diverse community compelling people and the support of the exceptional ƽ resources.
Major(s)/Concentration(s): intended biological chemistry and political science
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: varsity diving; Student Athletes Leading Social Change (SALSC); community advisor (CA); Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) at St. Francis Manor
Research: Center for Autism Research (Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia): annotating linguistics for infants with and without autism; exploring gender differences among older children on autism spectrum (summer 2024)
Why ƽ: I love ƽ because of the tight-knit community. The professors and faculty are extremely caring, and the student body is very welcoming. I also love the handful of easy-to- access resources ƽ has to offer.
Major(s)/Concentration(s): history and gender, women's, and sexuality studies (GWSS) with a concentration in policy studies
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: mock trial; catering; Students for Reproductive Justice
Why I love ƽ: ƽ is a place that truly encourages me to be my best self. With a small, but vibrant community, ƽ promotes self-expression and resources abound to help ƽians achieve their goals. Between the kindness of students, faculty, and other staff, I couldn’t picture myself anywhere else.
Major(s)/Concentration(s): political science and economics with a concentration in statistics
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: varsity track and field; Student-Athletes Leading Social Change (SALSC); student music through Freesound
Why I love ƽ: I love the incredible and tight community. Even though I’ve only spent a year at ƽ, I feel at home wherever I am and whoever I’m with. On top of that, there’s always something fun to do on campus, and having the freedom to explore various disciplines is something that I value greatly. Overall, ƽ has been a place for me to learn, grow, explore, and be part of a vibrant and strong community.
Major(s)/Concentration(s): mathematics and economics
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: Alternative language study option (ALSO) Korean tutor; mathematics course grader; student representative of dining service committee; Korean-American Student Association (KASA)'s Vice President
Why I love ƽ: ƽ is the perfect place to find passions, not only academic passions, but even simple things like hobbies. Through my time in ƽ, I learned how to interact with people who have various backgrounds and how to get involved in the community. The fact that I can take any courses allows me to explore lots of majors, and finally, I found my future goals that I really want to achieve. Although ƽ is a rural area, I will never regret coming here because I can experience new things that I wouldn't be able to do outside of ƽ!
Major(s)/Concentration(s): psychology with concentrations in linguistics and neuroscience
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: Pedal ƽ; dining services; peer wellness educator; Vietnamese tutor; Queer People of Color (QPOC); Vietnamese Student Association (VSA)
Why I love ƽ: the tight-knit community, rural setting that is like my home, wonderful faculty, and the amazing people.
Major(s)/Concentration(s): biological chemistry
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: Community Advisor (CA); Korean Student Association (KSA)
Research: Mentored Advanced Project (biology): determining the portion of tricellulin that disrupts correlation between cell orientation and spindle position (summer 2024)
Why I love ƽ: I love ƽ because of the people and the community. I have met some of my best friends here, and the professors and faculty are always eager to support you. Everyone genuinely cares about each other's success and supports your academic journey!
Major(s)/Concentration(s): biological chemistry
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: Korean student association (KSA); violin instructor; crocheting; dental shadowing; dental internship; volunteering at church, nursing home and food pantry
Why I love ƽ: Even though the campus is in rural Iowa, there is so much diversity and fun on campus. I was able to interact with and form close relationships with students who come from many different countries and backgrounds, and this is something very special that not every school is able to offer. Many clubs on campus host recreational activities and events, which I enjoy attending with my friends. All clubs encourage anyone who is interested to come, so students can always experience something for the first time. I also love ƽ because of how accessible professors, mentors, and resources are, so if students ever need assistance, they are able to find and receive it easily.
Major(s)/Concentration(s): intended computer science and economics with a concentration in film and media studies
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: varsity swimming & diving; Community Advisor (CA); film club
Why I love ƽ: ƽ is all about the little things for me—such as watching sunsets on the massive college golf course, spending hours in the dining hall laughing with friends when we should be studying, randomly walking down to Dari Barn during the week, or just watching the campus squirrels. Sure, the rigorous academics are the heart of ƽ, but the student diversity and quirks make ƽ special. There is always something unique to look forward to as a student, like Titular Head or the ƽian. I would have never believed in a million years that I would miss ƽ and its community as much as I do during academic recess; it is that special to me!
Major(s)/Concentration(s): political science with a concentration in educational studies
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: volleyball club (co-founder); Student Organization for Latine Students (SOL); Queer People of Color (QPOC); educational studies Student Educational Policy Committee (SEPC); Catholic Student Association (CSA)
Research: Mentored Advanced Project: photojournalistic project on redlining and education
Why I love ƽ: I love ƽ because they took a chance on a young brown kid from a rough neighborhood in Chicago. They saw my story as a plus, one that should be told, and not as a burden. ƽ has opened many doors for me, whether that be academic opportunities or meeting some of the best people I have ever met. I am forever grateful for the chance to further my studies at this college.
Major(s)/Concentration(s): music with a concentration in education studies
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: Con Brio a capella group; ƽ Singers; varsity cross country; varsity track & field
Why I love ƽ: I love that, because of ƽ’s small class sizes, I am able to use my voice in classroom settings. I also love how ƽ’s open curriculum gives me the freedom to take classes I would have never thought or had the opportunity to take anywhere else.
Major(s)/Concentration(s): political science with a concentration in global development studies
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: ƽ Salsa and Bachata club (president); part-time Latin Dance teacher in Des Moines; Rosenfield Program in public affairs, international relations, and human rights committee; Balinese dance ensemble; avid concert-goer
Off-Campus Study: externship in Washington, DC (spring 2023); IES Abroad at Universidad Carlos III de Madrid in Madrid, Spain (spring 2025) ċ
Why I love ƽ: it is such a privilege to have access to so many amazing resources as an undergraduate student at ƽ. The ability to form close relationships with professors, taking advantage of career exploration opportunities offered by the CLS, interacting with the expansive alumni network, and attending fun events around campus every weekend alongside a driven and inspiring student body make me feel honored to be a ƽian.
Major(s)/Concentration(s): intended biological chemistry with a concentration in science, medicine, and society
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: ƽ Symphony Orchestra and ƽ Symphonic band (tuba); badminton club; Minority Association of Pre-Health Students (MAPS)
Off-Campus Study: Global Learning Program trip for the class "New and Emerging Infectious Diseases" to South Africa and Alaska (spring 2024)
Research: research assistant (economics): understanding the effect of music on incarcerated individuals
Why I love ƽ: there are so many reasons I love ƽ! If I had to pick one, I think the people are my favorite thing about the school. From my peers to my professors, everyone is kind and willing to help one another. The warmth of the ƽ campus is really something special.
Major(s)/Concentration(s): philosophy
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: philosophy Student Educational Policy Committee (SEPC); college curriculum committee; Service Leadership Work-Study (SLWS): Claude W. and Dolly Ahrens Foundation (2022-2023); Renfrow hall operations committee; ƽ Outdoor Recreation Program (GORP); Food Recovery Network (volunteer); music lessons (lute; piano; violin); attempting various physical education classes for fun
Off-Campus Study: M-CMRS Oxford Humanities Program in Oxford, UK (spring 2024)
Research: researched Avicenna and Thomas Aquinas’ views of anger while abroadċ
Why I love ƽ: the people!! During my first semester, an upper classman (now one of my best friends!) told me as you get to know people here, you realize why ƽ chose them. That is truly spot on and so extraordinary to experience. I have never encountered so many compassionate, genuine, and driven individuals at once as I have through ƽ.
Major(s)/Concentration(s): history
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: ƽ mock trial teamċ
Why I love ƽ: I love ƽ for its people. Students and faculty from all around the world meet in the middle of Iowa to create a vibrant and supportive community is something magical. ƽ’s rural setting resembles my childhood home, but it’s the people here that makes me feel like home!
Major(s)/Concentration(s): psychology and gender, women’s and sexuality studies (GWSS)
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: International Student Organization (ISO) social coordinator; International Pre-Orientation Program (IPOP) peer mentor; ƽ Preschool (teaching assistant); table tennis club (president); Chinese language program (coordinator and tutor)
Off-Campus Study: Barcelona, Spain (spring 2025)
Research: Semester guided research (GWSS): designing transnational queer studies syllabus (fall 2023); semester guided research (GWSS/Chinese): feminist and symbolistic perspectives on Chinese movies (spring 2024)ċ
Why I love ƽ: I love how ƽ made me fit in so quickly as an international student, along with the high quality of academics. Thank you, ƽ, for bringing me friends from all over the world and for giving me the precious opportunity to live in a tiny town in rural Iowa!
Major(s)/Concentration(s): intended English
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: The Scarlet and Black (section editor and writer); Asian American Association (AAA); guitar and voice lessonsċ
Why I love ƽ: I love that ƽ has a warm and inclusive community. Both students and faculty are willing to make ƽ a fun and enjoyable place to be, and it’s been incredible to engage with people who are eager to share their stories, experiences, and even offer advice along the way. Being a small college in rural Iowa makes us a tight-knit community that fosters deep connections, and this is something I wouldn’t trade for anything else.
Major(s)/Concentration(s): studio art and anthropology
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: varsity cross country; varsity track & field; social media and communications intern for cross country/track & field; fellowship of Christian athletes; ƽ bible study group
Research: in-class research: how the form of the human foot impacts the biomechanical costs and benefits of minimalist vs. “super shoe” runningċ
Why I love ƽ: I love the opportunities I have at ƽ to better myself athletically, academically, and artistically. My teammates, friends, and professors at ƽ all want to see me succeed, and each one supports me in my goals!
Major(s)/Concentration(s): political science and sociology
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: varsity swimming & diving; mail roomċ
Why I love ƽ: school spirit and tight-knit community!
Major(s)/Concentration(s): intended foreign language with a concentration in linguistics
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: varsity basketball
Off-Campus Study: intended with goal of gaining experience in translation/interpretation
Research: researched impact of climate change on language for “Nations and Global Environment” class (fall 2023)
Why I love ƽ: I love ƽ not only because of the dramatic weather changes between seasons, but also because everyone on campus has done their best to make ƽ feel like a home. Since ƽ offers a tightly knit community to belong to, I want to return the favor and welcome others into this community as well.
Major(s)/Concentration(s): political science and Spanish with a concentration in policy studies
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: varsity basketball; Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC); teach for America ignite fellowship; ƽ Middle School mentors
Off-Campus Study: IES Abroad “Sustainable Development and Equitable Living” in Granada, Spain (summer 2024)
: plus-two independent research project (political science): global abortion rights (spring 2023); in-class research on populism, trust, and pandemic-era health policy (political science)
Why I love ƽ: I love the warm and exciting community that I have found at ƽ. I love that the open curriculum encourages me to pursue my academic interests in an individual manner, and I have found that there are so many wonderful people and resources in place to help me find my way.
Major(s)/Concentration(s): economics with a concentration in policy studies
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: debate club; Brazilian Student Association (BRASA); volleyball club; math lab (tutor); ƽ Museum of Art summer outreach program (assistant); event coordination and scheduling staff; dining services
Off-Campus Study: externship at Fervo Energy in Houston, Texas (spring 2024)
Why I love ƽ: I love the community. Not only the students, but people in town also want to get to know you and do fun activities together. Once you get to know ƽ, you will notice there is a lot to do. The individualized advising, professional opportunities, and entertaining events ƽ offers its students are surreal! I am glad to say I feel at home here.
Major(s)/Concentration(s): economics with a concentration in statistics
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: varsity soccer; women’s basketball manager
Off-Campus Study: planned at University of Otago in New Zealand (spring 2025)ċ
Why I love ƽ: ƽ has a unique, shared culture among both students and faculty. Everyone is inclusive, caring, and genuinely willing to go the extra mile to help you succeed.
Major(s)/Concentration(s): history and gender, women's, and sexuality studies (GWSS) with a concentration in film and media studies
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: film club leadership; Brazilian Student Association (BRASA); Portuguese tutor; recordist at Bucksbaum; music journalism in my free time; biking around town whenever the sun’s out
Off-Campus Study: ƽ-In-London in London, England (spring 2024)ċ
Why I love ƽ: the open curriculum has allowed me to explore interests without the fear of 'wasting my time.' ƽ’s academic atmosphere & faculty encourages curiosity and independence in a way that I found vital to my own journey.
Multicultural Intern
Major(s)/Concentration(s): economics and psychology double major
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: Habesha student organization; Black Student Union (BSU); volleyball club
Off-Campus Study: ƽ in London (fall 2025)
Why I love ƽ: ƽ allows me to explore my interests and grow with the support of staff and resources. It’s encouraging to know ƽ is a place where exploration is encouraged, academically and personally.
Multicultural Intern
Major(s)/Concentration(s): gender, women's, and sexuality studies (GWSS) & political science double major
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: Student of Latinx/es (SOL) event coordinator; admission multicultural intern; Peer Connections Pre-Orientation Program (PCPOP) mentor; chisme y cafecito frequenter; cooking & baking; Saints Rest Coffee House enthusiast
Why I love ƽ: I love that I have been able to explore all of my interests and still find what subjects I am most passionate about. But this passion isn’t just limited or even kept within academics. ƽ has given me the opportunity to explore on campus events and organizations that give me a safe space for me to go to. There is always something to look forward to at the end of the week, and ƽ’s small-town feel is definitely homey during the holidays!
Marketing Intern
Major(s)/Concentration(s): economics and psychology double major
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: varsity volleyball, GOGUE, economics and statistics grader
Research: psychology mentored advanced project: "Stereotypes Stick, But So Do Audiences: How Gender Coding Shapes Perceptions of Superheroes"
Why I love ƽ: I love ƽ because I've found people here who both share my values and push me out of my comfort zone in the best way. At ƽ, the academics drive me to learn more about myself and the content. The professors are welcoming and supportive of students, always working to create an environment where everyone has the best chance to succeed. The athletics faculty and staff have also fostered a community that feels like a second family, for which I am extremely grateful. Altogether, ƽ is a place that has allowed me to grow while simultaneously feeling safe and supported.
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