“The faculty at Carthage truly go out of their way to make sure that students are not only understanding the material, but also enjoying the class. They are interested in expanding their students’ knowledge and making sure that their time at Carthage is worthwhile.”
Cami Christopoulos ’16, of Highland Park, Ill., majored in marketing and finance, and earned a minor in educational studies.
Cami’s favorite Carthage memory is the Relay for Life event held every April. “I got to see all of the hard work Colleges Against Cancer did come together and truly make a spectacular event for all.”
“A gift to Carthage may come from a single individual, but it enhances the lives over 2,000 students, their families, and faculty members,” responded Cami when asked about giving to Carthage. “Carthage students desire to expand their knowledge, and need the resources to do it. Whether it be contributing so that more students can travel worldwide and appreciate others’ ways of life, or providing assistance in making sure that the residence halls stay in prime condition, any and all contributions to the Carthage community will help today’s students excel in their work, organizations, and life beyond graduation.”
Encapsulating her Carthage experience in one word, Cami chose “enlightening.”
“Not only did I learn new material in my classes, but I also learned valuable life skills in managing organizations, communicating with fellow classmates and professors, and learning how to live away from home. The best part was being able to reconnect with my faith by attending Chapel and going to worship services. The religious life on campus restored my faith and kept me grounded.”
“Gifts to Carthage benefit every student. I have received scholarships and they allow me to attend this wonderful school.”
Gabriella Lay ’17, of Poplar Grove, Ill., majored in psychology with a minor in theatre.
“It is the people of Carthage that makes it so special. The people are warm, friendly, and more than willing to help,” said Gabby, sharing her favorite things about Carthage. “You can walk down Campus Drive and professors who you don’t even know yet smile at you. Or when you are struggling in a class and go to the professor, they are more than willing to help you any way they can.”
Reflecting on her thoughts on giving to Carthage, Gabby remarked that “it is important to invest in today’s students simply because they are tomorrow’s future. … If we don’t help them and give them the best resources and tools now, they won’t be able to go out and achieve all that they could. Please give. It isn’t about the amount, because any size gift helps. It’s about giving back. Take pride in being a Carthaginian. I do!”
“As a recipient of the Kenosha Oaks scholarship, I know firsthand what it’s like to rely on gifts from generous people to be able to attend Carthage and I am extremely thankful.”
Manar Mohammad ’16 writes: “I am thankful for Carthage because it gave me a place to discover myself and grow comfortable in my own skin. It is where I learned to be proud of who I am, and continuously shows me that the possibilities are endless for becoming someone I can continue to be proud of. I have been able to find my voice and let it be heard, because Carthage made me feel like what I have to say needs to be heard.”
Because of Carthage, she says, she was able to not just pursue a major in biology in preparation for medical school, but also study her other passions: English and creative writing. “By the end of my journey at Carthage, I learned to balance both parts of myself that I love: the biology fanatic as well as the passionate writer. The more I think about how lucky I am to be able to do both, the more I appreciate being at Carthage. Carthage also allowed me to start the first IAA (Islamic Awareness Association), because the Carthage community is so hungry for knowledge and to spread diversity.
“As a recipient of the Kenosha Oaks scholarship, I know firsthand what it’s like to rely on gifts from generous people to be able to attend Carthage and I am extremely thankful. The gifts of others allow Carthage students to follow dreams and pursue an education that others so strongly wish they could have.”
