Danielle Richards
Danielle Richards
Class Year
’19
Hometown
Zion, Illinois
Major(s)
Communication
Minor(s)
Public Relations, Psychology
Although she has always had a fascination with other cultures and the ways in which they interact, Danielle Richards never imagined she would be studying communication at Carthage, and loving it. As a transfer student, Danielle was attracted to Carthage by all of the opportunities and student involvement on campus.
Now heavily involved in the Communication and Digital Media Department, Danielle has formed many close relationships with CDM faculty, specifically Professor Colleen Kappeler, as well as fellow students. Danielle credits these relationships for sparking her passion in communications. She continues to encourage future Carthaginians to “take every opportunity and really get to know your professors.”
Outside of class, Danielle serves as VP of philanthropy for Alpha Chi Omega, and also performs with the Carthage Chorale and the Carthage Treble Choir.
Because of her passion for other cultures and leadership within her major, Danielle has been selected to lead a small group on a trip to Africa. The group plans to teach classes and run camps for children.
Career goal
“I am super passionate about other cultures, so I would love to work in public relations for a non-profit organization that works within that field.”
How have Carthage faculty had an impact on your life or Carthage career?
“Professor Colleen Kappeler has been so influential on my college career. Professor Kappeler always encourages me, even when I am not in her classes, and makes me so passionate about communications. She genuinely cares about her students and works hard to connect with them. She makes learning fun and is always willing to help and listen if need be.”
Favorite class
“My favorite class at Carthage was Principles of Public Relations because I really got to learn and understand the other side of advertisement. It was an extremely enjoyable class!”
Campus involvement
“I am in Alpha Chi Omega, sitting on the executive board as VP of philanthropy. I have also been involved in two choirs, the Carthage Chorale and the Carthage Treble Choir.”
Toughest class
“My toughest class at Carthage was Behavioral Statistics. It was tough for me because statistics is not a very easy subject and I struggled to understand sometimes.”
Opportunities at Carthage
“I had the opportunity to work full time over the summer at Carthage. I worked at the Todd Wehr Center coordinating and setting up for summer camps on campus.”
Scholarships
“I received the Springfield Scholarship, as well as two endowed scholarships, The Frederick & Jewel Marks Scholarship and theFred O. Haas Scholarship. Receiving these scholarships have meant a lot to me. First of all, it encourages me to work harder, and second, it has helped me continue schooling due to difficult money situations.”
Favorite moments and memories at Carthage
“One of my favorite memories from Carthage was watching my brother graduate in 2017. Another was joining Alpha Chi Omega and instantly have so many friends and such a strong support system. Another was Winterfest 2017 when I was in the choir. The lights and music were all so beautiful and inspiring.”
Favorite spot on campus
“My favorite spot on campus is the upper chapel in the A.F. Siebert Chapel by the stain glass windows. It is so beautiful and serene.”
Biggest surprise so far
“My biggest surprise by far has been becoming a communications major. I never expected I would choose this major, but I truly found passion in communications.”
What would your 8-year-old self think of you now?
“My 8-year-old self probably would be proud. I have always loved talking to others and traveling. My 8-year-old self would probably be pumped that I am still passionate about other cultures and communications.”
Why should other students consider your major? What advice do you have for them?
“A communications major offers so many opportunities everywhere you go. The teachers are so invested in their students and the skills you learn and acquire from this major are skills you will take with you for the rest of your life.”
“Don’t hold back, take every opportunity and really get to know your professors. You will get so much out of the Communication and Digital Media Department if you use all of your resources and reach out.”
Why Carthage?
“Carthage had so many opportunities for me as a transfer student. The community was amazing and there are so many ways to get involved on campus.”