
Eva Menzia

Eva Menzia
Class Year
’25
Hometown
Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Major(s)
Special Education and Elementary Education
Minor(s)
Studio Art
Career goal
“After I graduate from Carthage, I hope to become either a special education teacher or an elementary education teacher!”
How have Carthage faculty had an impact on your life or Carthage career?
“When I first came to Carthage, I was especially nervous about forming relationships. I didn’t know a lot of people in my major, and I wasn’t sure if I would make friends or not. But my professors made sure to create groups or have class exercises in which I was able to meet others around me. Now, I am good friends with a lot of the people I met in those classes thanks to my professors who prioritized student relationships. They helped me form connections and build trust with those around me!”
Favorite class
“My favorite classes so far have been Ceramic Wheel Throwing, and Fostering Engagement and Positive Behavior in the Classroom. Ceramic Wheel Throwing helped me discover my passion for studio art (which is now my minor), and Fostering Engagement has helped me learn how to be a good teacher in and outside of the classroom.”
Campus involvement
“I am involved in many organizations! I am a member of the Student Government, which is an amazing organization to be involved in, especially if you are seeking leadership roles, public speaking experience, and general knowledge about activities and changes happening on campus. I am also involved in Carthage Treble Choir, a group of treble singers who perform at concerts and other campus events.
“In addition, I am a member of Enactus, a business-oriented organization that is open to all majors. Enactus focuses on the 17 UN sustainability goals and encourages members to create projects that can help build a better future for us all! And finally, I am involved in Mock Trial, which is a law-based traveling academic team. Each year, Mock Trial gets a new case that includes witnesses and case law, and then we learn how to create themes, make a set story, and build up confrontation skills.”
Toughest class
“The toughest class I have taken so far is Physics for Future Presidents. Although a lot of people have told me it was easy for them, I am extremely bad at science courses. It was a struggle to study and take tests, but it helped me form better study habits. So, I suppose the struggle was worth it in the end.”
Opportunities at Carthage
“Some opportunities I have had include traveling with different organizations and performing at the Carthage Christmas Festival with Carthage Treble Choir. Soon, I will go on a European tour with the choir for J-Term!
“I also had the opportunity to observe many different schools throughout Milwaukee, which helped me learn different teaching styles throughout classrooms!”
Scholarships
“I received various grants and a music scholarship! What I love about my scholarship is that, although I’m not a music major or minor, I was still given the opportunity to apply for it simply because I’m passionate about music!”
Favorite moments and memories at Carthage
“I have many favorite memories at Carthage; however, one of my all-time favorites is of move-in day! It was the first time I met my now best friend and roommate, Lily, and it was also when I met many others who I am good friends with now. Other favorite memories include traveling with Enactus to New York (and running 0.5 miles to hug a tree), walking along the beach with some friends while collecting sea glass, and getting elected as a sophomore senator for Student Government.”
Favorite spot on campus
“My favorite spot on campus is definitely the beach. Whenever I’m stressed or having a bad day, I love to just go sit on a rock and watch the water. It’s very calming to me.”
Biggest surprise so far
“The biggest surprise I’ve had so far is how supportive everyone around me is. Whether it be professors, staff members, or students, they’ve always been there for me — even if I was just having trouble with homework or having a bad day. It’s always good to know that the people around me have my back, and it truly feels that way at Carthage.”
What would your 8-year-old self think of you now?
“When I was 8 years old, I changed my career goals almost every week. I wanted to be a dentist, a nanny, a garbage woman, and many more. Now that I’m studying education, I’d like to think my 8-year-old self would be somewhat satisfied with my choice. Although, 8-year-old me would definitely tell myself to be cooler and become a fashion show designer or something just to spite me.”
Why should other students consider your major? What advice do you have for them?
“Education majors have the power to create a better future for many people. We have the ability to help create an educated society, which is how all other future endeavors begin. However, the only way we can reach that goal is through well-educated teachers and professors!
“If you are having trouble considering education as your major, I would encourage you to look upon your core beliefs and what you believe to be important! If you think education is for you but are nervous to declare it as your major, talk with your advisors — they are an amazing asset and are always there to help.”
Why Carthage?
“I chose Carthage because of the amazing programs it offers. Specifically, the Education Department is filled with so many skilled professors. During my freshman year alone, I learned so much about becoming a future educator, and I genuinely believe it’s because of the experienced professors I had!”