Shayna

The high school experience for many incorporate a plethora of stereotypes -- the jock, the snob, the hipster, etc. Well many may want to stereotype Knox students but the point is they can't. Yes we have athletes and the socially awkward. But being a Knox student, the general consensus around campus is if we are attending Knox we all must be somewhat weird. And we're okay with that. We're terrible at sports (D3) so no one's head can really get gassed. Also because it's a liberal arts campus there's room to do whatever. You have theatre folks who also major in chem, athletes who perform in the tri-yearly Terpsichore dance show (organized by students), etc.

Being from New York City, Knox was not an easy place to transition into. It is small, in the middle of cornfields and about 3 1/2 hours away from Chicago -- major no bueno if you need a city fix and have no family there.

Anywho, I always did my work and had a great personality about it. However, I think my change in demeanor for the small town got around. One day while walking Deam Javier Romano approached me. He knew me by name and said he heard good things, would love to speak to me and asked me to make an appointment with his secretary. So, I did and not with the naïvité that this conversation would be all peaches and roses.

We did indeed have a good conversation, but he did bring up concerns about city students on Knox Campus. We talked about how we could fix the problem of dwindling excitement experienced by students from major cities and how we could remedy that. He said he would fund it and from then on I had a new respect for Knox. Faculty members absolutely do what they can to ensure all students get their money worth and feel at home. Definitely a memory I will never forget!

At such a small campus it is hard to be considered just a number. At Knox this is definitely the case -- which can be a blessing and/or annoying as waiting for your next True Blood fix! MAJOR NO BUENO. But on the bright side, I think this is more of a benefit than set back. When people know you its usually because someone has taken an interest in you for good reasons. This also, helps create a sense of community and make you feel like people actually care about you which is helpful when coming from a far away place and you may be missing home.

Many may wonder if what you are reading in the brochure ad are all lies or is there actual truth to it. Hmm, honestly some of it is and some of it isn't. As a person of color, despite what people may want to believe, it can be a struggle. I'm from a diverse place -- Chelsea, NY (downtown NYC). I've never felt so racially aware until coming to the midwest. It feels like they're so far behind in a lot of regards, but it doesn't mean you cannot have a great time none the less. There are so many clubs, organizations and other type of outlets that you will definitely find a place and group of friends for you. Like any experience, college (for the most part) is what you make it. If you put out positive energy it will come back to you, and vice versa. Overall, I think there is a lot of support shown to differing racial, religious and gender groups. I-fair shows this best. It an event put on every year uniting all the different ethnic clubs on campus. It's a big day. In the beginning its food representing all different ethnic groups and it is so yummy. Then, later on in the evening, performances from each cultural organization (dance, song, etc) which attracts an enormous crowd, including people from the town

And not necessarily in a good way. Because it's a small town everything shuts down at 2AM!! No it's not a typo, TWO AM. Major no bueno, if you're from a big city like me. Even if you're not, it's effin college! No one's night should end at two in the morning. Technical foul! Even campus parties, at 1:59am you will see campus safety pulling up onto the fat houses and they will gladly walk into the house like their name is on the lease to make sure every one is on their way out of the door. The bars close at two as well. smh, no words. I'm just glad I'm on break right now and back home in one of the greatest cities ever. Who am I kidding, the greatest (haha I know shameless plug, but idc!). But there honestly, like I previously said are other outlets and plenty of homework to help keep you occupied! Also, because there are so many people from different backgrounds, you will have some good friends to help occupy your time as well.

Knox to the outside may look so beautiful and pristine, but there is more to it than what the mere eye sees. It is very pretty, but the winters are harsh and food can become easily boring. They get you because you think this is great! They have a salad bar, stir fry line, bar where you can request a few things (hamburgers, chicken patties, grilled cheese, etc) and other food but it gets so boring so quick! The meals are repeated quite frequently but with imagination you can spruce it up. And the dessert room b.k.a "the fat cage" is preyty awesome. I try to say no, but the blondies and freshly baked chocolate chip cookies keep bring me back.

In regards to the people, the word weird comes to mind. Which makes me feel at home honestly. In NY you see it all. So, the outrageousness of many of the students does not shock me. Just be prepared!

BUT jump for joy when you're done!! Man although, you only take three classes per term (more if you're feeling adventurous and feel like spending) they are some of the most rigorous classes will you say you've had the pleasure of take. Although, it will not feel like a pleasure when you are taking them.

Classes at Knox are mentally demanding, but you will not regret them because you know you are learning. Professors force you outside of your comfort zone to think in ways you are not used too. But in the end you are thankful for it.

I went to school high school in Spanish Harlem and always felt like Spanish was somewhat of a second language. My last two Spanish classes taught me I had so much to learn. My first homework assignment I stayed up ALL night translating every other word in a very difficulty article written in Spanish. But I was well prepared and my vocabulary approved immensely along the way.

That's Knox! It's difficulty and tough, but with motivation and persistence the work can be conquered. And when it is, you won't only feel a sigh of relief, but dare I say it -- a bit of gratitude and definitely a sense of pride.

The sport scene is LAME! Yes, we do have teams but they are *in my best puerto rican accent* ¡Terrible! How can I put this nicely. If you're are expecting to go to a school with "Ws" under their belt. Do not. I repeat, DO NOT come to Knox. The football team just wreaks disappoint. Anyone who doesn't agree is in denial. That's just the truth of it. Sad part is whatever the sport, the girls team always does better than their male counterparts but draw smaller crowds. No bueno. I even used to be apart of the softball team my freshman year and quite mid-season. The loses weren't worth me being pulled out of classes.

But, a little hurt never hurt nobody. Just know, you have been warned!