Name: Corina Varlan
The place(s) I call "home": Bucharest, Romania; but Grinnell is my home now, too!
Class year : 2014
Major/Intended Major: Political Science, Sociology, Philosophy… haven’t decided yet!
Why I chose Grinnell: To get the best education I could ever get and to experience a different view of life, through a different culture.
How I spend my time: There are so many things you can pick from when deciding what to do here in Grinnell; usually you don’t have the time to participate in everything you want to. Last semester I joined the Model United Nations club and we attended a conference in Chicago, which was amazing. I am also interested in filmmaking, and together with my peers we are trying to set up the first Grinnell filmmaking club. Otherwise, I try to attend as many talks by the many authors, social activists, journalists and other interesting people that are invited on campus.
A highlight from my time here: I think where you are is not as important as the people you’re with. I have met the most genuine, interesting, amazing people here! I love learning from all of them, no matter if they are my professors, college staff or the other students. Being part of this vibrant community is one of the best things that ever happened to me.
My favorite class at Grinnell (so far): Political Science has opened my eyes to the political world and the way it influences so many aspects of the world around me. It developed my critical thinking ability and enriched my knowledge.
Three words that describe 'my' Grinnell: independence, love, support
My advice to new or aspiring Grinnellians: Do not be scared to experience something new, even if it might be scary. Coming to Grinnell turned my whole world around, but this perspective added a whole new dimension to my life. Also, you might be surprised how much fun the cornfields can be!
