“I’ve known since high school that I wanted to become a physician. I’d heard a lot about the science programs at the College and particularly liked the close relationship they have with the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC). I decided the College was my first choice after I met with the chair of the chemistry and biochemistry department.

“Last summer I worked with post docs in the analytical chemistry lab at MUSC. We used mass spectroscopy techniques to study and analyze the level of contaminants in the environment. The experience gave me a chance to decide once and for all whether I wanted to go into medicine or research after graduation.”

“Honors housing is a big plus. From the beginning you get to know everyone you are going to have classes with. One year I was an RA. I continued living on campus because I enjoyed the activities that are designed specially for Honors College students, and it was great to have built-in study groups in the residence hall.”

“I came to the College planning to major in either history or business. I spent the spring semester of my sophomore year in Trujillo, Spain, where I interned with the local tourism bureau and plan. " “Last spring I taught English as a second language on Johns Island. I worked with Spanish-speaking adults, helping them fill out job applications and label things in their house in English so when they go shopping they can describe what they are looking for. I also teach a few Spanish conversation classes at the College. Because my career plans have changed, I decided to add a health minor to my résumé. And, before I go to graduate school, I plan to take a year off and teach English in South America – probably in Chile or Ecuador or Argentina.”

“What drew me to the College in the first place, was the strong business program and the appeal of the Honors College. I completed an independent study requirement, which included an internship. I spent the summer in New York City with IMG, the world’s largest sports marketing firm. I helped book speakers for corporate events. Meeting people from all over the world in the Honors College helped a lot when I was in New York. Also, what I did for IMG was based on research and writing skills – the same things that are emphasized in the Honors College and in a liberal arts institution. "

I was sold on the College of Charleston when I came here to visit during an open house. What I enjoyed most about the Honors College was the interdisciplinary nature of the classes. In the law and society class, for example, the professor took current events and applied them to contract law. We went into affirmative action, the death penalty, the war in Iraq. I also did an independent study on the Lost Generation with the chair of the English department. That was really fascinating. Through the Honors College I found many opportunities to stand out and become involved. My crime, law, and society minor required an internship. I spent a semester as a child victim advocacy intern with People Against Rape, which made me interested in helping victims. I did my bachelor’s essay on the non-prescription use of Aderol and was a research assistant for one of my professors who was studying the communication between prisoners and the outside world in maximum security institutions."

“I can’t imagine a better place to have a college experience than in the city of Charleston, with the College of Charleston faculty, in the Honors College community. Early on I knew I wanted to be in Charleston. I applied to the Honors College because I wanted to live in a compact community within a larger community. I was so impressed with the preparedness and level of scholarship of the students in the Honors College. The advising we received was phenomenal and the Socratic method used in honors classes really made us be on our game. I spent a semester in Chile and completed my bachelor’s essay on the Christians for Socialism Movement. I hope one day to get my Ph.D. and become a college professor.”