Honors students have diverse interests and ideas. Major areas of study range from the sciences to the arts, while others are undecided. Generally speaking, honors students are inquisitive, hard working, interested in a variety of subjects, enthusiastic about learning, and willing to be involved in the life of their campus and community.
Roeland Park, KS
Freshman, Age 18
Pre-Nursing
Some of my hobbies are reading, playing games with the nuns I work with at a nursing home, shopping, cooking, hanging out with my friends, student ambassadors and participating in community council.
The honors program is different from high school because it isn't just regular classes made harder, they are classes designed specifically to be in the honors program. It's also more of a community feeling because you get to live with the students who are also in the program.
My favorite honors memory is winning the scavenger hunt with my mentor. Oh, and distributing bags to houses in Mankato so they could make food donations for a local shelter. We got donuts that morning :)
Advice for the first year honors students...get to know the other honors students. They can be a definite lifeline. Don't be afraid to ask for help. Don't get totally wrapped up in schoolwork though. While academics is really important, it's also important to have fun and enjoy college while you're here.
Wabasha, Minnesota
Junior, age 21
Chemistry (Premedical)
I like to spend my free time reading and participating in Stanford’s Folding@Home project (I made a team for Minnesota State University, Mankato—check us out at folding.stanford.edu, team # 207859!)
The Honors Program invites you to make learning a lifestyle. In high school the learning process might seem much less salient, but the Honors Program helps you learn to examine critically on a level that wasn’t possible before.
Thanks to an Honors grant, presenting research at the Undergraduate Research Conference is by far my favorite Honors memory. The whole experience of undergraduate research really deepened my understanding of how an education in Chemistry can be applied in the real world. I was also able to meet with other Honors students to practice our presentations and compare our work across disciplines. Having that “peer review” is an important resource, and without knowing other students in the Honors Program it would’ve been nearly impossible to organize.
Make time to study outside of class, make long and short term goals that you can work toward, and make sure to have some fun too. If you ever feel overwhelmed, talk to the Director, your Honors Connect mentor, or any other Honors student that’s been there—we can all give you some helpful advice and want to see you succeed!
Westport, South Dakota
Sophomore, age 20
International Relations and Communication Studies
I like reading, computers, doing puzzles, learning about current events, and participating on the Speech team.
High school doesn’t have a community like the Honors Program does; it simply just provides “honors” classes for students to take, but it is open for everyone.
My favorite Honors memory was going to Kansas City for the National Collegiate Honors Council and the ropes course for first year students.
Go and make the most of your college time…definitely take honors courses that are going to give you a unique insight that you would not get from general education.
Mankato, MN
Freshman
Chemistry ACS
I like reading, playing soccer, watching documentaries, and spending time with my family.
Unlike high school, the honors program brings together a community of diverse students who are very passionate about learning and getting the most out of their college experience.
My favorite honors memory was during the Make-A-Difference celebration where I had the opportunity to read my This I believe essay titled “The power of education” in front of students, faculty, staff, and other guests. It was an incredible experience. Thanks to Dr. Corley, Honors program director, for encouraging me to do it.
Use your time wisely. Plan accordingly, and if you have any problems the director, staff, and fellow honors students are there to help you. So, ask for guidance when you need it!
Omaha, Nebraska
Junior, age 21
Elementary Education
Teaching English as a Second Language (TESL)
I enjoy reading, playing tennis, running, and playing flute and piano.
There are smaller classes and more discussion oriented classes than in high school. There is also more diversity and cultural awareness in the program.
My favorite memories are playing games after our Honors meetings!
Get involved! Get connected! Study!
