Meet Our 2023–24 Admission Interns

Summer Intern

Major(s)/Concentration(s): political science
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: co-founder and co-captain of the volleyball club, Student Organization for Latine students (SOL), Queer People of Color (QPOC), work at McDonald’s, Spanish House coordinator for the 2023–24 school year, education department Student Educational Policy Committee (SEPC), Catholic Student Association (CSA).
Why I love Grinnell: I love Grinnell 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. Grinnell 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.

Summer Intern

Major(s)/Concentration(s): biology and mathematics 
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: women’s golf team and SALSC (Student Athletes Leading Social Change)
Research: I did research for my biology course that involved investigating the impact of calcium on the embryonic lethality of a microscopic worm called C.elegan.
Why I love Grinnell: Grinnell is the middle of everywhere in every sense. In this small campus in rural Iowa I have found more diversity, culture and excitement than I have before. Looking forward to this experience is mainly why I enrolled in Grinnell and my time here has not disappointed.

Summer Intern

Majors/Concentrations: intended computer science and economics double major
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: African and Caribbean Students Union (ACSU), prayer leader and content creator for Muslim Student Association (MSA), marketplace student worker, International Student Organization (ISO), International Soccer Club (ISC), GRASS (campus-wide group that meets up to watch soccer, usually English Premier League), biking, swimming for fun.
Off-Campus Study: (intended) Budapest, Hungary, spring 2025
Research: I am planning a MAP with my computer science professors for my second year revolving around modeling and assessing emotional processes in utility-based computational approaches.
Why I love Grinnell: I love Grinnell because of its individualized curriculum. The freedom to tailor my course selections and create a personalized learning experience has empowered me to explore my passions and shape my own academic journey. The close mentorship from professors and advisors has enriched my education, fostering collaboration and intellectual growth. This has truly made my college experience exceptional, and I am grateful for the opportunity to be part of this remarkable community.

Major(s)/Concentration(s): political science and Spanish
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: incubator mentor, Chaverim, Debate Union, Volleyball Club, community advisor
Off-Campus Study: intended in Madrid, Spain​
Research: researched the feasibility of college-sponsored direct flights from the Grinnell Regional Airport
Why I love Grinnell: I love that there are so many opportunities and fun things to get involved in. There’s always something going on! Also, there are so many resources for writing, career building, and exploring your interests.

Major(s)/Concentration(s): biology and sociology with a concentration in science, medicine, and society
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: cross country and track and fiel​d
Why I love Grinnell: Grinnell 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 Grinnell is something I’ve never experienced before, and I love it!

Major(s)/Concentration(s): Russian and political science
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: Grinnell women’s Ultimate Frisbee, Russian department office assistant, New Student Orientation ambassador, Grinnell Underground Magazine contributor​
Off-Campus Study: planning to study off-campus during third year to continue language study.
Research: completed independent research project in international relations with Professor Wayne Moyer as an addition to the class Politics of International Relations​
Why I love Grinnell: I love Grinnell because people come from around the world to create community here and share it. I’ve been so lucky to meet so many interesting people and hear new perspectives both in and out of the classroom. I love that while both the campus and town are small and peaceful, Grinnellians bring huge energy to everything they do!

Major(s)/Concentration(s): history and art history
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: Burling and Kistle Library student worker, student worker for the theatre department (scene shop), Art History Student Educational Policy Committee (SEPC) member, violin lessons, art, biking
Off-Campus Study: intended in Prague, Czech Republic, spring 2024​
Research: researched the history of labor and textile production in France for a Mentored Advanced Project (MAP), summer 2023​
Why I love Grinnell: I love Grinnell for the supportive and welcoming community: my professors, fellow students, and advisors. Grinnell has given me the opportunity to pursue and explore what interests me inside and outside of the classroom. I have grown so much since coming to Grinnell and made so many lasting connections with the other community members​.

Major(s)/Concentration(s): political science major with a concentration in environmental studies
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: women’s basketball, track and field, Student-Athlete Advisory Committee, middle school mentorship program, statistician for men’s and women’s soccer teams​
Why I love Grinnell: Grinnell is a wonderful place to grow as a learner and a person. This beautiful campus has introduced me to countless mentors, new experiences, and my best friends. Everyone here wants to see you succeed and will be there to support you!

Major(s)/Concentration(s): economics and French double major with a concentration in environmental studies
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: Grinnell Singers, ECN-111 mentor, French tutor at Center for Languages and Intercultural Communication (CLIC), office assistant at Writing, Reading, and Speaking Center​
Off-Campus Study: Middlebury School in Cameroon, spring 2024​
Research: student pedagogy partner in economic history with Meredith Paker ​
Why I love Grinnell: I love Grinnell because the community here is so uniquely warm and welcoming. From the students to the professors, so many people are genuinely interested in your life and success, and I have felt so loved and supported on campus. I have built connections with friends and professors that I know will last a lifetime.

Major(s)/Concentration(s): gender, women’s, and sexuality studies and studio art
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: land steward for the Sustainability Committee, content creator for The Sequence magazine, DANCIN!, art, writing, painting, 3D messes, thrifting, eating, watching The Office​
Off-Campus Study: DIS Stockholm Program in spring 2024
Research: gender studies​
Why I love Grinnell: I love Grinnell because of the community of students and faculty that I connect with. Grinnell has taught me how to love learning and embrace the knowledge I learn. I am challenged to grow and expand myself to my fullest potential here and I truly appreciate Grinnell for that.

Major(s)/Concentration(s): economics and political science
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: women’s soccer Team (GCWSOC), Pioneer Capital Investment Club (PCI), athletic training room employee, internship at an Ecuadorian NGO, CLPG (summer 2023​)
Why I love Grinnell: I love Grinnell 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): intended sociology with a concentration in science, medicine, and society
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: dance ensemble member, [Weekend] coordinator, New Student Orientation (NSO) ambassador, Food Recovery Network volunteer
Research: In my intro to biology class, I investigated which mutations of p53 inhibited its function and could then cause tumor growth.​
Why I love Grinnell: I love how Grinnell’s open curriculum allows me to explore new fields while being guided by my advisor and professors.

Major(s)/Concentration(s): intended biology
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: women’s cross country and track and field, Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) representative, Line Dancing Club (LDC), Center for Prairie Studies, Student Environmental Committee (SEC), Conard Environmental Research Area (CERA) 2022 summer intern
Off-Campus Study: Grinnell-in-London spring 2024, spring Externship 2023 (Singapore)​​
Research: designed and conducted research on stomatal responses of plants to various environmental stimuli in Professor Jacobson’s “Effects of Climate Change of Organisms” course​ 
Why I love Grinnell: As cliché as it sounds, my favorite thing about the Grinnell is the people! Throughout my time as a student, my peers, professors, and members of the alumni network have been eager to create meaningful connections that have helped me grow as a student and a person. The people here genuinely want to see each community member succeed and have provided both a welcoming home away from home and an inclusive space to build critical skills for life after Grinnell.

Major(s)/Concentration(s): English and sociology
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: president/co-founder of Grinnell College Floating Squirrels (inner tube water polo club), Wilson Center incubator student mentor, English SEPC (Student Educational Policy Committee) member​
Off-Campus Study: intended spring 2024 Dublin Writer’s Program, Dublin, IE
Research: exploration of the sociological implications of the American sitcom in a mini-documentary for Intro to Sociology; research of the prevalence of gendered themes in 2000s pop music for Sociology and Gender​
Why I love Grinnell: I love going to school in a small town. It’s an experience that many seem to overlook due to a fear of isolation. Even though we may not have malls, buses, or a bustling downtown area, nobody is ever isolated from each other. Grinnell (both the college and the town) is the perfect-sized place to explore and socialize with friends or strangers alike, whether at the local bowling alley, Dari Barn, or on sunset walks!

Majors/Concentrations: biology and psychology double major
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: research assistant at the Child Studies Lab; teacher assistant at the Preschool Laboratory; member of the women’s tennis team; previous member of the student-athlete mentors; member of the International Student Organization; dining hall student worker during first year; training room student worker and chemistry grader during second year​
Research: summer MAP in the psychology department examining the effects of stress during mid-adolescence on depression-like behaviors using a rodent model of PTSD
Why Grinnell: I love Grinnell because of the amazing community of friends I have found! I also love the amazing opportunities that the school has given me to explore my research interests and develop skills that are essential for future graduate studies!

Major(s)/Concentration(s): computer science with a concentration in digital studies
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: brand management certificate candidate at the London Business School, UI/UX intern at MSW Media, student at Yonsei University’s summer semester, Sangrok Orphanage student volunteer, teacher’s assistant at a coding academy in Seoul, member of Korean Student Association (KSA) at Grinnell, figure skating, traveling, café-hopping
Off-Campus Study: intended Budapest, Hungary, in fall 2024 and Tokyo, Japan, in spring 2025​
Why I love Grinnell: I love Grinnell because of its peaceful yet busy campus, open curriculum, and inclusive environment. Grinnell is a place where students can freely express themselves and develop lifelong friendships.

Major(s)/Concentration(s): sociology
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: LINK mentor, reunion student worker, Map the System participant, Food Recovery Network (FRN) volunteer, violin
Research: With the Map the System program, I am researching a social issue with a group of other participants.
Why I love Grinnell: There are so many reasons that I love Grinnell, but it’s really the people that make it. I have met many incredible people here who are so genuinely caring, passionate, and invested in each other, academics, social justice, activism, and their various other interests. I feel as if there is a very supportive community, and we empower each other in all aspects of our lives, making it possible for us to thrive.

Major(s)/Concentration(s): economics with a concentration in policy studies
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: Pioneer Capital Investments (PCI); New Student Orientation (NSO) ambassador; campus tour guide; avid snowboarder; novice carpenter​
Research: With the Map the System program, I am researching a social issue with a group of other participants.
Why I love Grinnell: I love the access to professors that Grinnell’s size enables. It allows students to learn so much more by reassuring them that their professors genuinely advocate for their success. I also love Grinnell for the diversity of its students’ origins and the unique community that is fostered on campus.

Major(s)/Concentration(s): intended economics major with a concentration in policy studies
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: community advisor (CA), cross country and track and field athlete
Why I love Grinnell: I love Grinnell because of its driven and involved student body; caring professors, staff, and coaches; athletics; as well as its research and study abroad opportunities.

Major(s)/Concentration(s): English and anthropology major with a concentration in peace and conflict studies
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: cross country and track and field, Con Brio acapella, The Grinnell Review, Line Dancing Club
Off-Campus Study: Dublin, Ireland Writer’s Program, spring 2024
Research: Wrote and published a short story in University of Pittsburgh’s Forbes and Fifth for a peace and conflict studies MAP researching Ovidian Pacificism. “An Echo is Heard” is a retelling of the myth of Narcissus from the character Echo’s perspective, giving a voice to the nymph who had been cursed to only echo the phrases that people (specifically men) say to her. In this story, the female character achieves the depth that she had been lacking in the classical telling of this myth.
Why I love Grinnell: Grinnell has so much color! From season to season, watching the bright greens shift to reds and yellows and oranges and then eventually back to green is one of my favorite parts about living in Grinnell.

Major(s)/Concentration(s): mathematics and anthropology double major
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: women’s ultimate Frisbee team, student-athlete mentor (SAM), Swing and Contra Dance club, voice lessons, expert on Grinnell’s local playgrounds
Off-Campus Study: Ecuador and Japan, Global Learning Program 2023
Why I love Grinnell: I love the community I’ve found at Grinnell! 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 Grinnell fosters.

Major(s)/Concentration(s): intended sociology major with concentration in peace and conflict studies
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: co-host and producer of Going Forth, a podcast by the Center for Careers, Life, and Service (CLS); acted in the Department of Theater and Dance’s Mainstage and One-Act Festival; member of Infinite Coincidence, Grinnell’s long-form improv troupe
Off-Campus Study: fall 2023 Buddhist Studies in Bodh Gaya, India (intended), and spring 2024 Grinnell-in-London, England (intended)
Why I love Grinnell: This is easy — the people! I’ve been incredibly lucky to connect with so many interesting and engaged people from so many different backgrounds. The heart and soul of Grinnell is its vibrant community; Grinnellians care deeply about each other and the world in such an authentic way that makes it an extraordinary place to be. I can’t imagine myself and my life without Grinnell and the people I’ve met!

Major(s)/Concentration(s): intended gender, women's, and sexuality studies (GWSS) with a licensure in education
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: dining hall worker, New Student Orientation leader, service-learning work study worker, theater and film actor, collage maker, knitter, and a proud member of the Neverland Players!
Why I love Grinnell: Grinnell’s students and faculty are some of the kindest, most vibrant, and interesting people I’ve met. They are engaged in everything from drag shows and dice games to performances and protests. This community has a diverse and unique range of passions, but we share one common commitment: keeping Grinnell welcoming, well-rounded, and weird!

Major(s)/Concentration(s): physics major 
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: student leader of Latin American Ensemble, member of Grinneleanor Roosevelts (Ultimate Frisbee team), physics science community leader, astronomy tutor, Latin percussion student, Physics Student Educational Policy Committee member, Disco band vocalist, avid crocheter, language learner, and home cook
Off-Campus Study: Latin American Ensemble tours to Yucatán, Mexico (January 2024, January 2020) 
Research: Research Experience for Undergraduates in large-scale asteroid surveys at Northern Arizona University (summer 2023), Independent study in carbon star variability at Grant O. Gale Observatory, Grinnell College (spring 2023), Research Experience for Undergraduates in NASA’s Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite exoplanet candidate follow-up observing at Whitin Observatory, Wellesley College (summer 2022), Mentored Intermediate Project in accessible and creative computing/software development at Glimmer Labs, Grinnell College (summer 2021)
Why Grinnell: Grinnellians are passionate about an incredibly wide range of issues. Everyone you’ll meet here has such varied interests, and I love discovering new sides to even my oldest friends! Also, the faculty and the research and educational opportunities here are top-notch. There is so much support for students to grow not only as learners, but as people. I’m so grateful I chose Grinnell.

Major(s)/Concentration(s): psychology with a concentration in science, medicine, and society 
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: co-editor-in-chief of Grinnell College Press; president and co-founder of Badminton Club; outreach and communication chair of Chaverim, Jewish student organization; Science, Medicine, and Society Student Educational Policy Committee member; psychology tutor; Grinnell Review content creator
Why Grinnell: Grinnell is full of friendly and enthusiastic people — here, I was able to find the things I’m passionate about and connect with others over our interests. Grinnell’s small size means there are lots of opportunities to meet people and make close friends. Because of the small student body, I often saw the same people from my classes again at clubs or events. It helps that there is only one dining hall, so I always run into friends to eat with! There are also tons of student clubs and organizations to join, and once I found some I cared about I got more involved and joined the board. Or, it’s easy to create new organizations, like I did with Badminton Club! Grinnell has helped me foster my interests, gain leadership experience, and make lifelong friends!

Major(s)/Concentration(s): economics with concentrations in statistics and policy studies
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: women’s basketball; track and field; Student Athletes Leading Social Change; Grinnell College Preschool student teacher; Asian American Association; Diversity and Inclusion Board for Athletics
Why Grinnell: The Grinnell community is extremely welcoming and collaborative. The faculty and your peers are there to support you and cheer you on along the way. The academics here are demanding, but there is always a support network and numerous resources to help. Aside from the top tier academics, there are countless activities that go on every day and there is always something for everyone to do. Whether that is late night studying in the grill, hammocking by Younker, bike rides to Saint’s rest, or competing against your friends during Moyer’s Relays — Grinnell is truly a unique and close-knit community.

Major(s)/Concentration(s): biology with a concentration in neuroscience
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: Biology SEPC
Off-Campus Study: DIS Denmark, fall 2022
Research: biology MAP with Professor Clark Lindgren, measuring pH in the synaptic cleft
Why Grinnell: There are a lot of reasons to love Grinnell: the faculty’s commitment to student success is unparalleled, the classes are so unique and personalized, and the town is beautiful and walkable. However, my favorite part of Grinnell is the people, hands down. The community here is exceptional; the people are so inclusive, supportive, and they make this place so singularly positive.

Major(s)/Concentration(s): German and history
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: writing mentor, student assistant for the history department, Grinnell Outdoor Recreation Program (GORP), Nerf at Noyce, Student Alumni Council, reading, following baseball
Off-Campus Study: intended IES Abroad Vienna — European Society and Culture, spring 2024.
Why Grinnell: The incredibly interesting and diverse classes and curriculum that Grinnell offers, taught by excellent professors who constantly challenge me to think and learn in unexpected ways. Grinnellians are unique and passionate and have come together to build an incredible community in somewhere many, myself included, would never expect to find themselves.

Major(s)/Concentration(s): political science and Russian with a concentration in Russian, Central European, and Eurasian studies.
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: treasurer of the Quiz bowl Team, Pub Quiz
Why Grinnell: Grinnell allows me to explore what I am passionate about. There are always events and things to do on campus, and the community is incredibly kind and welcoming!

Major(s)/Concentration(s): philosophy
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: Philosophy Student Educational Policy Committee (SEPC), service leadership work-study — 2022–23 Claude W. and Dolly Ahrens Foundation student assistant to the director of partner programs, Alumni Reunion 2023 student staff, Renfrow Hall Operations Committee, 2023 Fulbright UK summer institute applicant, Grinnell Outdoor Recreation Program (GORP), Food Recovery Network (FRN) volunteer, music lessons (flute, piano), attempting various physical education classes for fun :)
Off-Campus Study: Oxford Humanities Program, spring 2024
Research: will complete an independent research project on middle age/early modern philosophy through an off-campus study program.
Why Grinnell: The people! During my first semester, an upperclassman told me as you get to know people here, you realize why Grinnell chose them. That is spot on, and truly extraordinary to experience — I have never encountered so many compassionate, genuine, and driven individuals than I have at Grinnell.

Major(s)/Concentration(s): history and gender, women’s, and sexuality studies with a concentration in film and media studies
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: part of film club leadership, member of BRASA, ALSO Portuguese tutor, recordist at Bucksbaum, music journalism in my free time as well as biking around town whenever the sun’s out
Off-Campus Study: Grinnell-In-London 2024
Why Grinnell: The open curriculum has allowed me to explore interests without the fear of “wasting my time.” Grinnell’s academic atmosphere and faculty encourages curiosity and independence in a way that I found vital to my own journey.

Major(s)/Concentration(s): English with a concentration in linguistics
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: Catholic Student Association treasurer, writer for the B&S (Grinnell’s online satire magazine), Grinnell Mock Trial, Grinnell Singers
Off-Campus Study: Consortium for Advanced Studies Abroad – Year in Dublin (intended for fall 2024 – spring 2025)
Why Grinnell: There are so many reasons why I love Grinnell, but the main reason is the quality of people who make up the community. Both in and out of the classroom, Grinnellians are sincere, focused, and engaged.

Major(s)/Concentration(s): religious studies
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: Religious Studies SEPC, Chaverim secretary, Synchronized Swim Club, Floating Squirrels (inner tube water polo), student ceramics studio assistant.
Off-Campus Study: externship in Anchorage, Alaska, 2022; Yiddish Book Center, Steiner Summer Yiddish Program 2023; semester in Chiang Mai Thailand, spring 2024.
Research: I did research on current perceptions of historic Jewish communities in China as part of a religious studies class as well as research of how adolescent girls use friendship bracelets as a form of communication and autobiography as part of a material cultures class.
Why I love Grinnell: Grinnell College is set up to help students thrive now and in the future. I have had so many incredible opportunities at Grinnell, from my Alaska based externship to an intensive summer Yiddish program. Professors, other staff, community members, and other students all want to see you succeed. I also love the Grinnell community. Grinnellians are incredibly welcoming.

Major(s)/Concentration(s): political science and English with a concentration in Russian, Central Europe, and Eurasian studies
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: Grinnell’s softball team, Peer Connections Pre-Orientation Program (PCPOP) leader, and Student Athletes Leading Social Change (SALSC)
Off-Campus Study: planning to take the Holocaust Remembered course which has a course-embedded travel element to it in summer 2024
Why Grinnell: I love Grinnell’s open curriculum and flexible course plans. I also love that I have the ability to meet people all over the country and the world.

Major(s)/Concentration(s): biochemistry and Spanish
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: volleyball club, member of ISO, tour guide at admissions office, SCL mentor for BIO-251, student/mentor for the ALSO program (teaching modern Greek)
Off-Campus Study: IES Abroad Study in Granada, Spain – spring 2024
Research: I did a research project for my BIO-150 class that studied the effects of copper exposure on the growth and antibiotic resistance of a bacterium called Serratia marcescens. Currently, I am doing a MAP in the biology department that focuses on the expression of a specific gene that seems to be responsible for helping plants acclimate to heat stress.
Why Grinnell: Grinnell has been a place of great personal growth for me both academically and socially. Its community has given me the space to explore my interests and discover who I want to be. As unexpected as I thought it would be when I first came here, Grinnell and its people have managed to become a second home to me, and this is why they have a special place in my heart!

Major(s)/Concentration(s): political science and Spanish with a concentration in global development studies
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: women’s swim and dive team; line dancing club; National Alliances for Mental Health; water polo; fiber arts club; dog walking; baking; working out; political volunteering 
Off-Campus Study: plan to study political science and Spanish in Granda, Spain, spring 2024
Why Grinnell: I have learned first-hand that Grinnell’s community is here to support you both academically and personally no matter what happens during your education. Having that support means I get to develop deep relationships with my professors, coaches, and peers that have helped me succeed in and out of the classroom. And I love the squirrels!

Major(s)/Concentration(s): religious studies 
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: Weekend event coordinator, Religious Studies Student Educational Policy Committee (SEPC), Student Environmental Committee (SEC), Iowa Army National Guard (ARNG), Grinnell football, New Student Orientation (NSO) ambassador, elementary mentor (LINK). 
Why I love Grinnell: I love that there are countless resources at your disposal for you to succeed. From incredible professors and beautiful facilities to the CLS and the clothing closet, Grinnell puts everything in your path to pursue your passion

Major(s)/Concentration(s): studio art and anthropology 
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: men’s cross country and track and field, social media and communications intern for Grinnell cross country and track and field, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Grinnell Bible Study Group
Research: researched how the form of the human foot impacts the biomechanical costs and benefits of minimalist vs. “super shoe” running
Why I love Grinnell: I love the opportunities I have at Grinnell to better myself athletically, academically, and artistically. My teammates, friends, and professors at Grinnell all want to see me succeed, and each one supports me in my goals!.

Major(s)/Concentration(s): political science and Spanish with a concentration in policy
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: women's basketball
Off-Campus Study: I’m planning to study abroad in the Grinnell international internship program in Barcelona during summer 2024.
Research: In my second semester, I conducted a Plus Two research project on global abortion rights. The project was an extension of Professor Wayne Moyer’s political science class on human rights.
Why I love Grinnell: I love the warm and exciting community that I have found at Grinnell. 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): undeclared
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: student environmental committee (SEC)’s co-leader; sustainability office’s communication coordinator; LaKeRoje cluster, Student Government Association (SGA) senator; Department of Residence Life’s student programming coordinator; International Student Organization (ISO) treasurer; Poweshiek Animal League Shelter volunteer
Research: Summer 2022 Mentored Advanced Intermediate Project (MIP) in Peace and Conflict study
Why I love Grinnell: People in the community and the school staffs are all friendly and willing to help and support us. Especially during the time when my foot was injured, the dining hall staffs and the campus safety helped me a lot with grabbing food, getting to the class, and so on. They are quite caring and considerate. Also, the professors in Grinnell are super approachable no matter in class or after class. They build such an inclusive space in both class discussions and their office hours. Specially, my favorite literature class with the rich resources and in-depth topics has improved my writing and critical thinking skills a lot as a non-native speaker. I really love the academical environment in Grinnell and especially all the nice people here!

Major(s)/Concentration(s): history and French
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: mock trial and Chinese Student Association (CSA)
Why I love Grinnell: I love Grinnell 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. Grinnell’s rural setting resembles my childhood home, but it’s the people here that makes me feel like home!

Senior Interviewer

Major(s)/Concentration(s): sociology major with a concentration in education studies​
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: front of the house/box office staff, Dance Ensemble, Education Student Education Policy Committee Member, New Student Orientation ambassador/coordinator, guitar, volleyball club, intramural volleyball, art house, Students Organization Latinx (SOL), admissions tour guide
Off-Campus Study: study abroad with CIEE in Seoul, South Korea (fall 2022); externship in Brooklyn, New York (spring 2022); externship in Gdansk, Poland (spring 2023).
Research: Education Mentored Advanced Project (EDU 499, summer 2023); video analysis on equity in small group discussions in science learning classrooms. 
Why I love Grinnell: The college community is extremely welcoming and encouraging — students and professors are genuinely supportive of one another.

Senior Interviewer

Major(s)/Concentration(s): psychology and Spanish double major
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: stitcher in the costume studio; actor in the Department of Theatre, Dance, and Performance Studies; fiber arts club; Swing Dance Club, Con Brio A Capella, crocheting, playing TTRPGs, and LOTS of video games.
Off-Campus Study: course-embedded study in Spain for SPN-385 (Contemporary Spanish Literature and Film)
Research: “Kissing at College: Public Displays of Affection in Straight and Queer Presenting Couples” for PSY-214: Social Psychology. 
Why I love Grinnell: Grinnell has the most devoted professors, amazing academic opportunities and sunsets of any school I visited during my application process, but more than that I love the Grinnell Community. Everyone here is so passionate, kind, and welcoming. I never get tired of meeting new people, and I’ve made friends here that will be in my life forever.

Senior Interviewer

Major(s)/Concentration(s): studio art major with an intended East Asian studies concentration
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: Global Kitchen peer mentor; Marvin Community Garden volunteer; Chinese, Japanese, East Asian Studies SEPT board member; Studio Art SEPC board member; Swing Society; Chaverim
Off-Campus Study: spring 2023 Arcadia Abroad intern, Philly program
Research: Mentored Advanced Project summer 2022 on “Food, Culture, and Experiential Learning.”
Why I love Grinnell: I feel like the sense of place is very profound in Grinnell. Here I have heard and learned how much your location can influence how you act and what you can access. I admire the College for acknowledging this and truly trying to enrich the community it is in and the landscape surrounding it.

Senior Interviewer

Major(s)/Concentration(s): anthropology and Spanish double major
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: women’s cross country, women’s track and field, various music lessons​
Off-Campus Study: studied the role of doulas in lowering obstetric racism and maternal mortality rates in a medical anthropology class, something that inspired me to find my current internship, in which I’m aiding a senior researcher in creating an outpatient program that provides collaborative care for pregnant and postpartum women with co-occuring mental and substance use disorders
Why I love Grinnell: I love Grinnell because of its open curriculum and amazing professors. I couldn’t decide on a major and was having trouble making up my mind, but my advisor inspired me to take a range of courses and not worry about requirements to find out what I was interested in. The professors truly care about my success, and the open curriculum allowed me to create my own path and discover what major was best for me.

Senior Interviewer

Major(s)/Concentration(s): computer science and political science double major
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: Stew Makerspace (monitor and development team lead), cross country captain, track and field, Swing Dance Club co-leader, Contra Dance Club co-leader, Pub Quiz, statistics department mentor, Poweshiek Animal League Shelter volunteer
Why I love Grinnell: Although it sounds stereotypical, I find myself excited to come back to Grinnell every year because of the people. When I was talking with some alum friends over the summer, one of them commented on how they just haven’t been able to recreate the sense of community they had here, which really struck me. There aren’t a lot of places where you can wake up, walk out your door, and be surrounded by your best friends, all while getting mentally stimulated by classes you actually want to take and people who also chose to come to the middle of Iowa to learn and have fun. I know I’ve gotten lucky with a lot of things about my time here, but I genuinely believe anyone can make Grinnell their can’t-wait-to-go-back place.

Senior Interviewer

Major(s)/Concentration(s): chemistry and Spanish double major
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: Chemistry SEPC, Spanish SEPC, science community leader (organic and general chemistry), Grinnell Advocates, Grinnell College greenhouse handyman, backpacking! 
Off-Campus Study: Quito, Ecuador (spring 2023); IES Program 
Research: I conducted research with Professor MacInnes in the chemistry department in the summer of 2023. I researched the detection of lanthanides utilizing fluorine-doped tin oxide conductive surfaces with electrochemistry techniques. 
Why I love Grinnell: I love Grinnell because Grinnell is where I found my voice. I have found many opportunities to pursue several of my interests and I love being a part of the community here.

Senior Interviewer

Major(s)/Concentration(s): biological chemistry
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: women’s varsity soccer, Biochemistry SEPC member, CHM 221 science community leader (SCL)
Off-Campus Study: Cape Town, South Africa, spring 2023 
Research: I completed a MAP in organic chemistry with Professor Sieck on the synthesis of Fischer Indoles using microwave technology. I will be continuing this MAP in the fall 2023 semester! 
Why I love Grinnell: I love Grinnell because not only does it allow me to play the sport I love, but because I can work closely with professors and peers in and outside of the classroom. Getting to take super interesting classes has made my time at Grinnell so much more enriching, and I love the community we have here that supports any and all interests I have (as well as challenges me to try out new ones!)

Senior Interviewer

Major(s)/Concentration(s): political science
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: captain of women’s Ultimate Frisbee, writing mentor, member of swing dance club.
Off-Campus Study: studied abroad for spring 2023 in Athens, Greece with college year in Athens
Research: completed directed research with Professor Michaels, and developed a unit for her Native Histories project; participated in the student conference research project on Greek immigration law while studying abroad in Athens; also interned for the Denver City Council and completed a policy research project on vacancy taxes
Why I love Grinnell: Grinnell is a unique school filled with genuinely kind, interesting people who share a love of deep thought, open-mindedness, and learning. I love that I can grow and be myself here.

Senior Interviewer

Major(s)/Concentration(s): computer science
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: cross country and track and field varsity athlete, Campus Safety dispatch
Research: done in Japanese contemporary literature: Medoruma Shun’s In the Woods of Memory as a work of restorative justice.
Why I love Grinnell: The Small Community and Rural Vibes, Interesting Classes and Interesting Professors.

Senior Interviewer

Major(s)/Concentration(s): psychology with a concentration in neuroscience
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: Psychology SEPC member, International Pre-Orientation Program (IPOP) mentor, cultural attaché, birdwatching on campus, and practicing my wildlife photography for fun! ​
Off-Campus Study: DIS in Copenhagen, Denmark, fall 2022 ​
Research: I have designed and carried out human and animal psychopharmacological and chemo genetic experiments in my psychology and neuroscience courses. I have interned with a psychiatric research institute in New York and carried out research on digital cognitive testing across the lifespan.​
Why I love Grinnell: I love Grinnell because of its peace and quiet. I love the tight-knit campus community and knowing almost all the faces on campus. I love my professors who are so smart, awesome and passionate about teaching. I love all our traditions and the desire to create our own fun together.

Senior Interviewer

Major(s)/Concentration(s): anthropology with a concentration in policy studies
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: concert events crew for the music department, varsity swimming, Block Party committee co-chair, CLS service-leadership work study with the local housing authority​
Off-Campus Study: School for Field Studies, Cambodia, fall ’22; Global Learning Program spring break trip, Ireland/Northern Ireland with ANT-355 (anthropology seminar on collective memory)
Research: dependent research project conducted in Cambodia on Tourism-driven gentrification in Siem Reap, independent study this fall and upcoming senior thesis on substance abuse, care access, and stigma.
Why I love Grinnell: I love the people and friends I have made here, and the opportunities I have had to go abroad. I like the small campus and nice facilities!

Senior Interviewer

Major(s)/Concentration(s): sociology
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: student-athlete mentor co-leader, men’s soccer captain, Black Student Union member, Men of Color Empowered and Engaged co-leader
Off-Campus Study: Grinnell-in-London
Why I love Grinnell: I love Grinnell because it’s so unique. If you want to take the Music in Africa course as a sociology major, no one will stop you. In fact, it is encouraged that you take classes outside of your discipline, which is what I love most. I also enjoy the fact that I get to play collegiate-level soccer while receiving a top education at the same time. The balance couldn’t be better.

International Intern

Major(s)/Concentration(s): computer science and economics double major with a concentration in statistics
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: DASIL mentor, BRASA (Brazilian student organization), Economics and Statistics SEPC ​
Off-Campus Study: Social Justice and Olympics (Greece and Germany), spring 2023​
Research: In my research, I explored the application of two text-mining paradigms — bag-of-words and sequential models (BERT) — to predict changes in the federal funds target rate using the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) minutes. The findings revealed that the bag-of-words model outperformed the sequential models, offering valuable insights into predictive performance.
Why I love Grinnell: I am passionate about Grinnell because of its rich multicultural atmosphere and the diverse range of perspectives. One of the things that excites me the most is the freedom to create my own schedule based on my interests, thanks to the academic independence offered by the college.

Admission Marketing Intern

Major(s)/Concentration(s): classics and political science double major
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: social media content creator for CLS (Career, Life, and Services); Classics SEPC
Off-Campus Study: CYA Program in Greece, summer 2023
Research: In Classics 395: Roman Religion, I researched Constantine’s impact on the True Cross and its whereabouts, leading to the True Cross evolving into the modern-day iconographic symbol of Christianity.
Why I love Grinnell: Grinnell has given me more opportunities than I ever could have imagined for myself, from studying abroad in Greece to exploring my future career options. The connection I have with my professors and supervisors has shaped me into a well-rounded, eloquent, confident young person ready to enter the world. My skill set in professional and academic settings has truly been taken to the next level, due to the positive re-enforcement and guidance of the people around me. The students here push each other to be their best, and with that, I have met people that will be in my life for a long time to come. 

Multicultural Intern

Major(s)/Concentration(s): political science and gender, women’s, and sexuality studies double major

Extracurriculars/Work-Study: member of the Black Student Union, member of Queer People of Color (QPOC), First Gen Low Income Advisory Committee member

Why I love Grinnell: I appreciate having a liberal education; I learn very interesting and relevant topics that allow me to learn in ways that best suits me as a student. I also really love the friends that I have. They accept, embrace, and care for me; I don’t know what this place would be for me without the special people I have met here.

Multicultural Intern

Major(s)/Concentration(s): political science and gender, women's and sexuality studies double major
Extracurriculars/Work-Study: Student of Latinx/es (SOL) event coordinator, admission multicultural intern, Stew Makerspace, Chisme y Cafecito frequenter, cooking and baking, and Saints Rest Coffee House local patron (can't go without a nice latte on a cold morning)
Why I love Grinnell: 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. Grinnell has given me the opportunity to explore on-campus events and organizations that offer me a safe space. There is always something to look forward to at the end of the week, and Grinnell’s small-town feel is definitely homey during the holidays!