I live in Michigan but I cheer for the Buckeyes, and I would like to think that that makes me unique! I was fortunate enough to have been raised by both hard-working and fun-loving parents, and my favorite memories are the times that I spent at my grandparents' house or in the backyard on the swing-set with my sister. In high school, I studied ballet and was highly involved with the drama club. As a student at Hillsdale, I volunteer at the local elementary school and enjoy working at the library. Given the chance, I would hop on a flight to anywhere, and I am learning (finally!) to enjoy cooking.

What initially attracted me to Hillsdale was the size and location of the College, and I applied to the school with the intention of studying biology or pre-medicine. I was interested in the science courses available and was pleased to discover that the College offered a variety of internships and specialized study programs. After having toured the campus, I was impressed by the reputation of the College for strong academics, but was most struck by the student ambassador’s passion for the College, in addition to her knowledge about Hillsdale. Until that time, I had not heard anyone speak so excitedly about his or her studies, and that certainly left an impression.

The slogan for the town of Hillsdale is “It’s the people,” and these words certainly pertain to the community at Hillsdale College – students and faculty alike. Having lived on campus for close to six semesters, it would be a rarity to walk to class without waving or speaking to a good friend. Professors schedule regular office hours and often times encourage students just to stop by for good conversation. The dynamics of the relationships at Hillsdale are unique to those of any other setting, in that students build rapport with both their peers and superiors. The Welcome Party at the start of the fall semester is just the first of many opportunities to socialize and meet new people. All throughout the year, campus organizations publicize various campus activities and the students attend in large number! In fact, I met two of my best college friends at retreats sponsored by the Christian ministry, Hillsdale Christian Fellowship.

After spending a few weeks relaxing in my hammock with lemonade and a good book, I hope to hire on full time with a public accounting firm in downtown Detroit. What I am most looking forward to is settling down and raising a family, but in the mean time, I would be interested in traveling for both work and pleasure.

I have traveled to more places while at Hillsdale than at any other time in my life! This past summer, I participated in the Wuerzburg Study Abroad Program and spent five spectacular weeks in Germany, traveling, studying and absorbing the culture. Perhaps the most special part of the trip was celebrating the Kilianifest, sitting overtop the Main River, eating a pretzel and watching the fireworks (which just so happened to be on July 4th!) In my time at Hillsdale College, I have been involved with many activities, but none as rewarding as membership in the Pi Beta Phi sorority. As President, I have had the distinct pleasure of serving a group of strong, principled women, and I trust that this rewarding experience will extend far beyond college life.

Had it not been for Dr. Geyer’s enthusiasm for the German language, I am not certain that I would have pursued a German major. His ability to engage his students is truly exceptional, as is his skill for taking seemingly antiquated works and explaining their relevance for the 21st century student. Not only have I learned a great deal about German literature, but I have also gained a true respect for German ideas and customs.

My strengths certainly do not lie in analyzing literature or public policy, but what is the purpose of a higher education if not to challenge the student? In my time here at Hillsdale, I have learned to articulate and record my arguments, and I appreciate the exposure to subjects that I may otherwise not have considered.

mhuening@hillsdale.edu