While studying abroad in Germany through the Institute for International Education of Students program, Cassandra Stachniw '10 was selected by the Institute for Cultural Diplomacy to participate in “The United States Meets Germany: A Forum for Young Leaders .” |
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| Your hometown? | Galesburg, Illinois |
| Why Wesleyan? | It was a beautiful day on the campus tour; everyone I met was very nice and friendly. IWU has a great study abroad program and I was really impressed with the German Department. |
| Your major? | German and International Studies. |
| Favorite class or professor? | Professor Sonja Fritzsche, undoubtedly. Although I’ve had some very interesting classes, the first one I thought of as a "favorite" is Professor Horwitz’s “Modern German History” course. |
| After Wesleyan? | Then comes the “real world,” right? For me, nothing is set in stone yet. I want to take a year off between now and grad school, but where I will end up in the long run, I have no idea. I am on the precipice of the great beyond, and there are many new countries, peoples, and cultures to explore and experience. |
| Biggest thrill or memory? | Most recently – Biggest thrill: Biking through the Brandenburg Gate at night, as it was lit up, biking from West to East Germany. Its splendor and beauty were inspiring, but the metaphorical meaning of biking through the symbol of Germany’s rich past, present, and exciting future was a very great realization for me. Best memory: Seeing my baby niece when I came back from Berlin. And seeing her look up at me and smile: one of life’s most precious gifts. |
| For fun? | I love running. I love doing yoga. I love cooking. Reading, listening to music, going to concerts, sharing a meal with friends…and traveling! |
| The best? | Finding serenity in a world of chaos. Being with those who know you for who you are, accept you, and love you because of it. Living your life to the best of your abilities, with an open heart and mind. |
| Favorite book? | My most recent favorites are Skinny Bitch by Rory Freedman and Kim Barnouin. Those are two sassy, smart ladies! And I am working my way through John Steinbeck’s East of Eden, which is sinfully good. |
| Favorite band? | Recently, I’ve been listening to a lot of Lily Allen, Kings of Leon, and Kings of Convenience. But it really just depends on what mood I am in, and that changes what music genre I listen to. |
| Favorite movie? | Right now, my favorite movie is Into the Wild. Everything about the movie is very well done and the soundtrack is outstanding. |
| Favorite quote? |
"Wherever you go, go with all your heart." – Confucius |
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More than half of Illinois Wesleyan students study abroad, and the University ranks 31st nationally among baccalaureate institutions for students gaining this important educational experience. |
