Student Voices

Andrew Straszewski, '14

Meet Andrew

"The smaller class size affords me the opportunity to form a personal relationship with my professors, something which I don’t feel I would be able to achieve had I attended a larger campus."

Hometown: Mukwonago, Wis.

Major: Biology

Minor: Chemistry

Career Goal: To be an M.D. and Ph.D.

Andrew Straszewski, '14, describes Carthage College as his perfect fit, both as a student and as a student athlete.

"The smaller class size affords me the opportunity to form a personal relationship with my professors, something which I don't feel I would be able to achieve had I attended a larger campus," Andrew said. "All of the professors have been extremely approachable and easily accessible. I have found that all of the professors in the science departments seem to have my best interests in mind."

He has had many opportunities at Carthage to partake in hands-on research. Currently, Andrew is conducting research with Prof. Dan Choffnes of the Biology Department. He also works as a biology lab assistant.

During J-Term 2012, he is traveling to Nicaragua on one of the College's most popular J-Term study trips. While in Nicaragua, he will have the chance to work in a medical clinic and gain real undergraduate experience in the medical field.

In December, Andrew traveled to Virigina with Drs. Tobiason and Pfaffle to the Howard Hughes Medical Institute, a major biomedical research facility. While there, he learned research techniques that he and his professors brought back to Carthage to teach to other students. After he graduates, Andrew plans to attend medical school either for neurology or oncology.

On-campus involvement: "I am always busy on campus. I belong to Habitat for Humanity, Alpha Lambda Delta, Pre-Health Club, and I am a member of the all-male a cappella group called Maximum Capacity. I also am a member of the Carthage Men’s Track and Field team and participate in intramural sports such as flag football and basketball."

Favorite professor: "Although it is only my second year, I have had the opportunity to be exposed to several of the faculty members in the Biology Department. I simply cannot single out one professor who has been most influential to me. Thus, I would like to acknowledge Dr. Radwanski and Dr. Choffnes for pushing me in my academic endeavors. Both Dr. Choffnes and Dr. Radwanski have opened my eyes to the field of biological research. It is through the advising of these professors that I have begun to think of, and systematically approach answers to, new scientific questions."

Favorite class: "My favorite class has been Cell and Molecular Biology, taught by Dr. Tobiason. Despite the rigor of this course, I can not think of one lecture that didn't hold my attention."

Toughest class: "I found my toughest class to be Western Heritage due to the sheer amount of reading and writing required."

Favorite moments at Carthage: "Some of my favorite moments at Carthage College have been meeting so many people in such a short period of time. From meeting peers in my same field of study, to bonding with other teammates on the track squad, it is incredible to think of how many new relationships I have formed. Another favorite moment at Carthage was performing with my Maximum Capacity group in the student union. Seeing all of the students in the crowd who came to support us was a great feeling."

Favorite spot on campus: "My favorite spot on campus is the park bench near the Todd Wehr Center. After I go on runs, I often find myself sitting there for 10, even 15 minutes. It is a good place to unwind and just watch Lake Michigan."

Biggest surprise so far: "My biggest surprise so far has been how much free time you actually have in a day. If you are able to manage your time efficiently, there is no reason why you shouldn't have some relaxation time."

Advice for other students considering your major: "My advice for other students considering a science major would be to get involved in campus activities and really get to know your professors. Share your goals with them and they will help you achieve them. Find some sort of stress relief activity so it's not all about studying. Carthage is a great place to meet people."

— Elizabeth Reinhardt, '12

Student Voices

Adam Van Huis, '12

"Carthage provides the unique opportunity to develop close relationships with your professors. I knew that I would be able to rely on my professors for help when I needed it and for challenges when I felt up to it."
Read more ...

Kelsey Blumer, '13

Kelsey Blumer decided to study biology because she wanted to make a difference in the lives of others. "Carthage provided the opportunities and skills to help me succeed with that goal."
Read more ...

Andrew Straszewski, '14

"All of the professors have been extremely approachable and easily accessible. I have found that all of the professors in the science departments seem to have my best interests in mind."
Read more ...

Read student voices from graduated students.