video interview
Manuel
Year: Sophomore
Major: Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences
College: Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences (ACES)
One-on-One
What are your favorite places to study, hang out, and relax?
To study, I actually like to go to the ACES Library. It’s just as state-of-the-art as the Undergraduate Library, but there isn’t as much commotion. I usually go to Green Street to find a place for my friends and I to hang out. Anything that you might want to do is right there. The perfect place to relax is in the arboretum. It’s a really chill, low-profile place that has tons of beautiful scenery that you can get lost in for days.
What clubs or organizations on campus are you involved with?
I’m co-advisor for UNFAS, Unidos Nuestra Fuerza Avanzara Siempre, which is a Latino student organization sponsored by University Housing. I am also involved with Habitat for Humanity, an organization focused on ending sub-standard housing. Through Alpha Psi Lambda National Co-ed fraternity, which is a Latino interest Greek Letter Organization, I am able to socialize with other students as well as give back to the community.
Why and how did you choose your major?
For three summers prior to my senior year, I participated in JET, Junior Earth Team, which is a program offered through the Chicago Park District. This program really changed how I viewed the environment. For people, especially children, who grow up in urban areas like I did it’s hard to feel that connection with nature. After realizing the importance of our environment, I’ve become a huge supporter and advocate of educating people about the environment conservation.
Describe your most memorable experience at Illinois.
Last year on a random weeknight, my two friends and I went around campus trying to complete all of the “things to do before graduation” that are listed in the back of the I-Book. It was just so much fun; we chalked the Quad, sat in Krannert’s Amphitheatre and climbed the Alma Mater. It was a night of tons of fun, making unforgettable memories with my friends.
What is your advice to prospective students?
Be open to new people, new ideas, new places, and just be open to anything else that may seem uncomfortable or out-of-the-ordinary. Illinois has so much to offer, but only if you’re willing to explore and take advantage of the opportunities.
Video Interview
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