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Summer Chauffman
My involvement with the School of World Studies has been a very positive influence on my college career. I have taken some amazing classes, not just with anthropology professors, but with Spanish professors as well. I was also employed as a student worker at the front desk at one of the buildings, and can say that the experience helped me to meet many other professors and personnel who have had an impact on me as well. The passport requirements were a great aspect of the program, as it helped motivate me to become involved in activities that I may not have pursued on my own. The study abroad opportunities that the school offers are a big reason that I appreciated my time at VCU. I took one of the trips to the Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico, which opened my eyes to very new and exciting things. I had never had an opportunity to leave the country before and will never forget the people and places I got to experience while I was there. It was wonderful to get to meet other students with similar interests as well. I would recommend to any student that a study abroad opportunity is a must! Above everything else, I am most thankful for becoming a part of the School of World Studies because of one very exceptional person. I forged a relationship with one of my professors that eventually turned into a wonderful friendship. I met Dr. Christina Turner, my advisor, when I first switched from pharmacy to the anthropology program. I excelled in two of her wonderfully exciting intensive writing courses, “Human Evolution” and “Witchcraft, Religion, and Magic” in which she pushed you to do your best. Upon traveling to Mexico with her, she asked me to be her teacher assistant for the coming school year. Throughout the short time that I had the privilege to know her, she impacted my life in countless ways. I am who I am today and I have been this successful because of her strength and support. She cared so much about her students; it really made a difference in all of our lives to have that kind of a mentor. I will carry the inspiration that she has given me in my heart always; and I am confident that it will give me the strength to excel in whatever I do. |
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