|
First-Time Orientation Leader - Class of 2013
Email Marlena!Marlena came to Illinois Wesleyan from Columbia, MO, where she attended Rock Bridge High School. Out of all the places where Marlena applied, she really connected with the people at IWU. She noticed how many events were going on and the diversity of the events. It seemed like a great place for her to fit in and to fill different niches for her. Academically, the students really care about their school work and the professors are motivated to help their students in any way possible. It's a great environment with great people!
Marlena currently works as a chemistry TA on campus. She has been involved in Student Senate as the University Events Commissioner, which introduced her to IWU's student government. She is involved in the Alpha Gamma Delta sorority on campus, as well as the Titan inter-mural soccer team. She has taken part in various 5k runs including the Jingle Bell run and the Zoo run. Marlena is part of the Tri-Beta Biology club as well and does research with Dr. Bollivar.
In her free time, Marlena likes to hang out with friends, exercise, paint and sleep! School keeps her busy but if she gets a chance to relax and hang out with her friends, she takes it.
Her favorite memory of Turning Titan Orientation is probably the Carnival. She went with people she barely new but got to know them throughout the night. Those people have become some of her best friends and it all started with Turning Titan Orientation! They all took a green-screen picture and they all still have the picture!
Marlena's advice for new students:
Take it a day at a time, but plan ahead at the same time. It is easy to get overwhelmed, but if you slow down and think about what you have to do in the moment, you will be fine. However, it is important to think about your future classes for your major (once you figure out what you want to do). Take a night to plan out the next few years. But most importantly, enjoy every moment. Your first year will be the best time of your life if you let it; cherish every embarrassing and hilarious moment.