Class of 2024
The graduating seniors in the James Scholar Honors Program leave us with some memories and advice.
What does being a James Scholar mean to you?
Sonali Jain
“My favorite honors project was completed through a microbiology course. I did research on the connection between the maternal oral microbiome and pregnancy outcomes. This research was very eye-opening, and I learned a lot!”
Katherine Kondelis
“My favorite honors project was my presentation I created for CHLH 410 where I learned more about the relationship between public health and law.”
Emily Leon
“My favorite honors project has to be the one I am currently doing in my Spanish 232 course. I am volunteering in the community and then writing reflection essays about what I have observed and learned from my experience.”
Do you have any advice for prospective or current students in the program or college?
Lauren Couri
“Talk, talk, talk! I have learned so much from my conversations with peers, professors, and other mentors. These invaluable conversations have opened doors for me that I would have never known about. Talk to everyone you meet during your four years because they will teach you how to find yourself and your passion!”
Drake Niles-Cox
“Work towards establishing connections and meeting new people within James Scholar projects. It will give you valuable relationships throughout undergrad and even after graduating as well.”
Mackenzie Schuler
“Being a James Scholar Program is such a great way to grow academically and personally. I think it is important to explore all your options when it comes to choosing your honors project. My advice would be to choose projects that are out of your comfort zone because those are the ones that will substantially help you grow in various aspects of your life.”
What was your favorite AHS memory?
Colleen Shea
“The friends I have made through this major.”
Jennifer Zhao
“I have loved working in my lab, Dr. Hernandez's Mobility and Fall Prevention lab, and I loved being able to travel to the ACSM conference to present my work as well as attend the UIUC Kinesiology Department dinner there!”