When I first arrived at the University of Idaho, I knew I wanted to be involved with a community on campus that would understand my love of learning on a deeper level than the average student. What I didn’t know, at the time, is that this program would not only help connect me to other nerds, but it would give me some of the best experiences I could ever ask for throughout my time completing my undergrad. In my freshman year, I lived on one of the honors floors of Theophilus Tower. By the end of the first semester, a group of approximately 13 of us were meeting regularly on Thursday nights for “Dungeons and Dragons” (“D&D”). This was the highlight of my week, and it tethered me to so many students across different disciplines on campus. Through our initial connection with the Honors Program, I made some of my best friends. Not to mention many other exceptional opportunities being presented to me that I otherwise wouldn’t have encountered in other programs.
“That was the true gift given by this program; others who would keep going with me.”
I was able to participate in many things that related to areas I wish to pursue after graduation because of people in the program like Dr. Sandra Reineke, our program director, and Dr. Diane Carter, our faculty fellow. I had access to gaining editorial experience through working on The Looking Glass literary magazine for two issues, serving on the Honors Student Advisory Board (HSAB) for two terms, attending the Western Regional Honors Conference (WRHC) and finishing an honors thesis project in preparation for graduate school. I even served as a Resident Assistant (RA) during my sophomore year to continue developing the next cycle of our community. I adored that position, not only for the coworkers I was able to befriend in housing but also for the women in honors I had the privilege of getting to know throughout the school year. This is only the tip of the iceberg. Being part of this program has offered me so much more beyond the common eye for positions and presentations—it has helped to refine my skills in communicating with others.
I learned that the most important thing about our program was the people who took part in it. There is nothing more valuable than those you choose to spend your time with because, in reality, time is our most prized currency. I knew that I wanted my home away from home to be filled with those with whom I could really be myself around. That nerdy, bookish, dork who has way too much determination in making a lasting impression on this place before leaving. That girl with a desire to keep this love of learning and drive for growth continuing beyond our time at the University of Idaho.
That was the true gift given by this program; others who would keep going with me.