Students
LAS Admission
LAS Student Handbook
- Majors & Minors
- Degree Requirements
- Course Guidelines
- Academic Standing
- Attendance & Withdrawals
- Graduation
- Dates & Deadlines
- Advising & Support
Educational Enrichment
Careers and Extracurricular Development
Student Activities and Forms
LAS 101 Freshman Seminar Interns
LAS 101 Freshman Seminar Interns are accomplished juniors and seniors who are willing to share their college experiences with first-term students by serving as student mentors. They each lead a section of the LAS 101 Freshmen Seminar and are really excited to meet their students. They are among the best and brightest of our LAS students and we are very fortunate to have them with us for the Fall 2011 semester.
LAS 101 Freshman Seminar Internships
LAS 101 Freshman Seminar Interns meet once a week, in one-hour sessions, with a class of 20 to 25 students in LAS 101, a course designed to assist first-term students in making a successful transition from high school to the University, both academically and socially. In the LAS 101 classes, interns will familiarize their students with University resources, facilitate dialogue and discussion, and promote collaborative learning. An LAS 101 Internship offers our best and brightest students the opportunity to help others while enhancing their own skills and preparing for their chosen professions or advanced scholarship.
Interns will attend a one-hour weekly meeting with other interns to plan for each week’s classes and participate in mini-seminars designed to further their own leadership and professional skills. Interns will receive 3 hours of advanced-level credit for this service.
Application deadline for Fall 2012: February 10, 2012
Legacy Challenge Winners
Each LAS 101 section comes together at the end of the term to offer their best advice to the students who will be coming in next year. The winners this year were the most creative ever. Watch a video of the award announcements.
The winners this year are:
- Amy Holmstrom and section AF: read their blog
- Elise Harmening and section AB: watch their video
- Katy Malinowski and section EB: watch their video
- Su Hak Lee and section JI: mix CD and book
The year’s honorary mentions are:
- Jen Clark and section DA
- Amanda Lawrence and section JJ
- Christina Kim and section NB
- Lauren Gonzales and section TB
- Megan Visk and section SH
- Dan Klen and section HH
- Katie Lenart and section L61
LAS 101 Interns
Marall Abbaszadeh
Hello! I’m a junior majoring in molecular and cell biology with minors in English and chemistry. When I graduate, I plan to go to medical school and fulfill my dream of becoming a doctor. I also hope to someday become a published author. I enjoy reading, dancing, listening to classical music, and having picnics on the Quad with my friends. I believe that making a positive difference in someone’s life is one of the most rewarding things a person can achieve, which is why I can’t wait to be an LAS 101 intern and help incoming freshmen transition successfully to college life here at U of I!
Alex Anderson
Hello incoming U of I freshmen! I am currently a senior in political science and history. I am from the northwest suburbs of Chicago. (CUBS all the way, baby!) But I have also called Shanghai, China, and the south of France home while studying abroad during my sophomore and junior year in college. I am currently completing an internship in the booming town of Philipsburg, Mont., at the Great Divide Ranch with Project Vote Smart where my avid skills as a horse wrangler have been useful. My hobbies include reading, cliff diving, Harry Potter enthusiast, people watching, boggle dominating, and watching royal weddings. This summer I have participated in co-ed softball tournaments and a bowling league in Anaconda, Mont. (Obvious highlights of my summer!) My favorite color is green (on most days) but on certain other days it is known to be purple instead. I enjoy smoothies AKA Citrus Squeezes from Jamba Juice, and after returning from Europe have learned to love coffee. I look forward to getting to know my students and helping them assimilate into life at U of I. See everyone in August!
Hajera Azam
Welcome to U of I! I am a senior from Montville, N.J. I am majoring in sociology with a minor in chemistry. Last Fall, U of I gave me the opportunity to study abroad in Istanbul, Turkey, which was one of the most inspiring experiences of my life. I am a part of many clubs like the Illini Union Board, Pre-Dental Club, and Muslim Student Association. I also volunteer with Smile Healthy and I hope to one day pursue dentistry. In my spare time I like to run and read. I hope we can make your transition to U of I as enriching as possible.
Amber Bell
I am a senior and a history major concentrating in social studies education. Over the summer, I spent three weeks in Morocco for a study abroad program teaching English to middle school students. I also am a group fitness instructor with Campus Recreation going on three years now. In addition to teaching, schoolwork, and fitness, I am the VP of my dance team, Illini N Motion, and a teacher for beginner dancers at the Christine Rich Dance Studio. I enjoy being busy and involved in anything related to teaching, dance, music, and staying healthy.
Katie Brennan
I am currently a senior MCB student. Though much of my time is spent at Grainger, I thoroughly enjoy physical fitness through dancing, running, and swimming. I conduct research with the MIP department on Androgen Receptor responsiveness, I am the VP of finance for Phi Delta Epsilon medical fraternity and am intimately involved with Carle Hospital. I am also a member of a social sorority. After I graduate I hope to attend medical school. With my wide variety of campus involvement I hope to better your transition to the University.
Peter Brierton
First off I would just like to say hello to all the new incoming freshmen in LAS. I am currently majoring in political science and minoring in sociology. I plan to go to law school after I finish my undergraduate degree. Outside of school I am a huge Chicago sports fan. If I could give an incoming freshman one piece of advice it would be to simply enjoy every second of your four years here at Illinois. I speak from experience when I say that it goes by in an absolute flash. Don’t take the unique opportunities here for granted because they will be gone all too fast. I look forward to meeting all of you during class and orientation.
Megan Cavitt
I am a senior in history and secondary education. My college experience has involved tasting the best pizza and worst coffee of my life; writing 20 pages on gangster movies armed with eight pounds of research and a jar of Nutella; and screaming, “A mountain...climber’s...axe!” in front of a 100-person audience. My LAS 101 goal is to arm freshmen with the tools to create their own equally fantastic university experiences. I’m an active member of Illini Swing Society and New Revels Players and a former staff editor of Montage Arts Journal. My interests include film, comics, books, theater, feminism, the Internet, and The Beatles. And I am not from Chicago.
Jennifer Clark
Hi everyone! I just wanted to start by saying I’m so excited for the upcoming semester as an LAS 101 leader! A little bit about me is that I am a senior studying molecular and cellular biology (pre-med emphasis) along with Spanish in hopes of one day becoming a surgical physician’s assistant. I am the Vice President of the American Medical Student Association, so I stay pretty busy with volunteering and planning events for our members. I studied abroad last fall in Ireland and I cannot wait to travel again! I completed my first half-marathon in April and I hope to one day complete a full marathon. Other than that I just love to relax and go out with friends or catch a movie.
Caroline Clasby
Hi, everyone! I am a senior at U of I, and I am double-majoring in history and French. After graduation I plan to attend law school. Currently, though, at U of I, I participate in many clubs such as the history honors fraternity and Dream Team for Darfur; and while I am at home during the summer, I work for the technology department at my local school district. I just returned from a study abroad semester in France, so one of my favorite activities right now is traveling. I also enjoy dancing, running, reading, and hanging out with friends. I took LAS 100 as a freshman, and this is my second year as an LAS advisor. I think this program is really helpful and fun for both the student and the advisor because it helps the student to become acclimated and to achieve at the U of I, and it is also a way for the advisors to help others with the same questions and problems they had had as freshmen. I had such a great time teaching this course last year and cannot wait to teach it again this year!
Sam Cohen
Hello new students! I’m a senior (one semester left!) in psychology. It’s been a crazy ride, and I can’t believe it’s about to end. I’m torn between grad school, Teach for America, and med school—so the adventure isn’t over quite yet! I’m a fun, quirky girl who does student theatre, dabbles in swing dancing, but mostly just enjoys rolling with the punches of life. I just got back from a semester abroad in Italy (which I’m sure you’ll hear all about). This is my second time teaching LAS 101, and it was such a fun experience the first time, I wanted to come back. I can’t wait to meet you all!
Melanie Cornell
Hi! My name is Mel, and I’m currently a senior studying environmental science. I’m graduating this fall, and will start my master’s in political science this spring at the U of I. I’m hoping to use those degrees to go into environmental law, after finishing my master’s and applying for the Peace Corps. I’m very active on campus; in addition to several other organizations, I serve as a Student Senator and love to play volleyball and ultimate frisbee in my free time. I’m really excited to start teaching my LAS 101 section—I’ve got tons of wisdom to unload, including everything from where to get free help writing papers, to the best locations to nap around campus. I also just returned from a semester studying in East Africa, so I’m looking forward to force-feeding stories about elephants and such to some freshmen.
Khushbu Desai
Hello incoming freshmen! I am a senior in economics with a double minor in business and Hindi. I am involved in organizations on campus such as the Minority Business Students Association and Phi Beta Lambda. I am from the north side of Chicago and a big supporter of the Bulls and the Bears. I love to travel and wish I could travel more. Last winter I participated in a study abroad program through LAS in Shanghai, China. In my spare time I enjoy listening to music, dancing, eating, and meeting new people. I can't wait to meet all of you and guide you through the first semester of your freshman year. Welcome to the University of Illinois!
Luke Dosselman
My major is molecular and cellular biology. The most pressing goal I have is to make it into medical school, hopefully at the University of Illinois. From there I would like to become a physician some day. A side goal of mine is to get a 4.0 semester GPA...haven’t gotten it yet, but I’ve got a good feeling for these next two semesters! My interests include plastic surgery, socializing, cooking, and exercising. I’m excited to help other students adapt from high school to college life, and to act as a mentor.
Cristal Espana
I am a communication major with a Spanish minor. I am also currently in the process of completing my Leadership Certificate and I work at the ATLAS help desk in the Foreign Languages Building. After I graduate from the University of Illinois, I hope to gain work experience, then attend a graduate school with an excellent MBA program shortly after, and pursue a career as a marketing manager. In my spare time I enjoy hanging out with friends, whether it’s going out or just watching a movie. I also love traveling and staying fit. I am very excited to lead an LAS section and I look forward to having a fun and successful semester!
Melissa Estrada
I’m currently a senior double-majoring in communication and Spanish. I just got back from a semester abroad in Bilbao, Spain, and now am currently studying for the LSAT and looking into law schools for the fall of 2012. I’m an avid reader, long-distance runner, and love traveling. I’m excited to begin my senior year and to be an LAS 101 intern. I look forward to meeting the new freshmen and am excited to be a part of their long but most definitely exciting journey at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.
Alicia Freter
I am a senior in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences with a Spanish major and a French minor. I just spent my junior year abroad in both Costa Rica and Paris and cannot wait to get back to campus for my last year! This next semester I am going to be focusing a lot on what my next step will be after graduation (yikes!); my dream would be to work for Teach for America and then go to graduate school. I am really looking forward to leading the LAS 100 section and sharing my college experience with incoming freshmen! I can’t wait to meet you and welcome you to U of I!
Ritesh Gandhi
Hey Class of 2015! I am a senior majoring in MCB and chemistry. I am currently in the process of applying to medical school in hopes of becoming an emergency room physician in the future. When I am not doing homework, conducting research, or teaching, I like to run, watch reality shows, hang out with friends, and sleep. I cannot wait to see all the new faces and introduce you guys to the resources available at U of I! You guys should be excited to start your journey at such a great university!
Rafael Gnatek
Hi, my name is Rafael Gnatek, but everyone calls me Raf. I’m a senior majoring in geography and I’m from Lombard, Ill. I plan on going to grad school for either geography or urban and regional planning after I graduate. In my spare time, I enjoy activities such as traveling, hiking, bicycling, playing football, and having crazy adventures. I’m really excited to lead an LAS 101 section so I can bestow some of the knowledge I’ve gained throughout my college career and to share my experiences with freshmen coming to the University of Illinois. Leading an LAS 101 section also gives me the opportunity to spend time with new people who I might not have had a chance to meet and get to know otherwise. I’m looking forward to a fun and rewarding semester with everyone!
Lauren Gonzalez
I am 20 years old and currently a junior here at the University of Illinois majoring in political science. After college, I plan on attending law school. On campus, I teach rape awareness to freshmen as a FYCARE facilitator and I am the Social Chair of the University’s Political Science Club. In my spare time, I like to run, take exercise classes, and spend time with my friends. I truly enjoyed my LAS 101 experience my freshman year and I am looking forward to teaching it. I learned a lot about campus life and made some great friends while doing so. I am very much looking forward to meeting my incoming freshman class!
Mary Claire Gustafson
I’m a junior (Class of 2013) majoring in anthropology with a sociocultural focus, and minoring in museum studies. My dream job would be to work in the Field Museum in Chicago. My interests include Kappa Delta Sorority, running, crossword puzzles, soccer, cooking, reading, and summertime. I am very excited to lead an LAS 101 course. LAS 101 taught me so much as a freshman, including how to navigate around campus and about global issues. I cannot wait to meet everyone and help freshmen during the first weeks of a new college experience!
Jason Han
Hey everyone! I am a junior from Bloomington, Ill., majoring in molecular and cellular biology here at the University of Illinois. I am a pre-med student hoping to go to medical school and after that become either an orthopedic surgeon or a trauma surgeon. Here at U of I, I have been able to participate in many different clubs. There is definitely a club for everyone here on campus! My favorite club on campus is the Illinois Medical Screening Society. We offer free health screenings to the poor and uninsured in the Champaign-Urbana community. College life is certainly new and exciting, and I’m sure all of you will have a blast. Good luck!
Elise Harmening
I am going to be a senior double-majoring in English and rhetoric (creative writing) with a minor in secondary education. When I grow up, I want to be a lawyer. To help me move toward that goal I have been a part of the U of I Mock Trial Team since my freshman year. I am also active in my church at home and plan various retreats for high school students. I am really excited to get to know everyone this year and to help you get to know our university a little better.
Gretta Hermes
I am a junior at the University of Illinois studying both English and creative writing with a minor in communication. I am hoping to turn that into a career in publishing whether it be in textbooks, fiction, or greeting cards. Around campus, I am involved in a volunteering society, Orange Krush (GO ILLINI!), the Career Center, and Kappa Delta sorority. In a nutshell, I love everything about the U of I, and I am so excited to share what I’ve learned in my great experiences here to freshmen this year. If I could give one piece of advice to new students: be open to everything and take the time to soak up all our awesome school has to offer!
Amy Holmstrom
Hello, I am a senior in molecular and cellular biology! I am a James Scholar and I am in the MCB Honors Concentration. I am applying to medical school and am hoping to become a pediatrician or surgeon. I enjoy swimming, running, and cooking, and I love animals (although the only pet I currently have is a fish named Leo). This is my second semester teaching the LAS 101 course for incoming freshmen. I look forward to meeting many of you and hope to help ease your transition into life as a student at the University of Illinois.
Brian Iggins
I am a senior from Frankfort, Ill., majoring in history and minoring in secondary education, and I plan on becoming a high school teacher, baseball coach, administrator, and possibly superintendent. I was lucky enough to work as an intern this past summer at the National Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, N.Y. I look forward to meeting all of my students and having a fun time learning about you and sharing my experiences with you. Be prepared for a fun and enjoyable experience this semester and welcome!!
Matt Jachimiec
Hi everyone! I am going to be a senior this fall. I am a history major and it is my intention to go to graduate school for history. I’ve always considered being a teacher, and I hope that with either a master’s degree or PhD, I will have the opportunity to teach college-level courses and/or conduct research. I also have a profound love for music. Although I appreciate music from all genres, I am truly a bluesman at heart, being a guitar player as well as an avid listener of the blues and classic rock. However, I am also passionate about an eclectic array of other hobbies including movies, reading, running, and biking. Unfortunately, I haven’t been able to take part in too many of those activities this summer since I am working full-time as an intern at a Chicago law firm. Meanwhile, I am very excited to be an LAS 101 intern for the fall. Since I was once in the same shoes as the incoming freshman class, I think it will be a rewarding experience for me to act as a guide and facilitator for my students in order to make everyone’s time at U of I positive, memorable, and successful.
Kaylin Jamnicki
I am an English major and secondary education minor from Naperville, Ill., and am a junior here at the U of I. My goal is to become a language arts teacher in a middle school, since I’ve always enjoyed reading, and history as well, and I would love to work that passion into what I teach. On campus, I’ve gotten involved in several Registered Student Organizations (RSOs) that have connections with University Alumni, and that has been a really great experience to work with peers and get to know some pretty cool alumni as well. I also have made some incredible friends, and love to spend time sitting on the Quad with them, or walking around Campustown. I’m really excited to be leading an LAS 101 section this fall, because in my LAS 101 class freshman year, I was able to learn so much about the campus and the other people in my class, which made my transition much easier. Having someone to talk to who knows the ins and outs of campus is definitely a welcome relief, and I hope that I can help the freshmen in the same way! I’m looking forward to a great Fall 2011 semester and to getting to know you!
Sonali Jayakar
I am a senior in the College of LAS, majoring in rhetoric. After graduating, I hope to spend two years in either the Teach for America or Teach for India program, after which I hope to get a PhD in English and teach in a university setting. I was born in New York but have lived in Naperville for most of my life, with my parents, younger brother, and dog. I’m also a communications intern at the Asian American Cultural Center. I’m really excited to be a part of LAS 101 this year, and I’m looking forward to teaching students and learning from them as well.
Christopher Kasia
I am a senior studying molecular and cellular biology with a minor in food science. As I pursue a career in medicine, the University of Illinois has helped me in two important ways that relate to my professional pursuits—as a challenging academic institution where I can grow intellectually and as a means of providing opportunities to be involved in the campus and growing as an individual. As a first-generation Polish-American, my parents have sacrificed much for my future and being a member of the Illini community for four years has been one of the most memorable experiences of my life and helped shape me into who I am today. When not in class, I participate in gut health research, lead a Polish Bible Study, tutor, serve as the co-president of Service and Justice Outreach, and of course, lead an LAS 101 class—an opportunity that I also had my junior year. In my free time, I enjoy lifting weights, watching House, and spending time with my brother and friends here on campus. To be a part of the LAS 101 team for another year is really a great joy for me. To be able to influence an incoming class of Illini, to simply be there for them, is very rewarding and it is a great feeling knowing that you are looked up to by so many incoming students. I look forward to another amazing year as an LAS 101 intern!
Abdul Moid Khan
I am a senior in molecular and cellular biology, hoping to attend medical school next fall. Some of my interests include reading comic books, filmmaking, biking, volunteering, and messing around with friends. I look forward to discovering the many resources available to students on campus with the incoming freshmen in our LAS 101 class. I hope that they will have as much fun as I will.
Christina Kim
Hi everyone! I hope you all are ready for a great semester in LAS 101. Just to share a little about myself, I’m majoring in molecular and cellular biology and planning to attend medical school sometime in the future. I like to watch and play sports, read, and travel. My hope is that you all will build friendships and have fun while I guide you through your first semester. My goal for LAS 101 is to make your transition into the University of Illinois as smooth and successful as possible. I look forward to meeting all of you!
Kevin Klemm
I am a senior in history/secondary education. I am planning on being a high school history teacher and coaching football. I currently work for the U of I football team, and my job has been full of amazing experiences. Outside of work, I love hanging out with my friends, listening to music, meeting new people, and just enjoying college for the unique experiences it can provide. I look forward to leading an LAS 101 section and introducing students to all of the wonderful resources that this great university has to offer!
Dan Klen
I’m a senior majoring in English and creative writing with a minor in business. My hometown is Naperville, Ill. After graduation I plan on attending a graduate writing program. I spend most of my free time writing when I’m not working. See you in the fall!
Ari Kravetz
Hey guys! I’m going to be a junior at U of I. I’m an English major with a secondary education minor so I can teach high school English, and am loving every part of college so far; it’s awesome. I am from the north suburbs of Chicago and went to high school at Niles North in Skokie. During the past five summers I have been working at a day camp where I am now the Assistant Unit Head and counselor for second graders, so I get to spend a lot of time with some very funny kids. I also tutor during the school year and am a student member of the National Education Association. I enjoy everything having to do with the outdoors, and when it comes to sports I really like watching hockey. I also speak fluent Russian and Spanish. I enjoy playing volleyball, biking, running, cooking, reading, and napping—nothing beats a good nap. Some of my favorite books are The Giver, Catcher in the Rye, and The Kite Runner. I’m very pumped to be leading a section of LAS 101 and cannot wait to have an awesome time doing it. I cannot be more glad that I ended up going to the University of Illinois, and I know that everyone will be just as glad about their decision as I am. It’s going to be a great semester and I look forward to getting to know everyone in my section, and hope to be of help in any way I can.
Erin Krepel
Hi! I’m a senior majoring in Spanish education. After graduation I would really like to go abroad and teach English in a Spanish- speaking country before returning to the U.S. to teach Spanish. Interests outside of my major include American Sign Language (ASL), watching movies, and hanging out with friends. This will be my second year leading an LAS 101 class and I’m super excited to be doing it again, especially with the improvements they have planned for the course!
Khair Lambaz
Hello there! I am a senior in LAS, majoring in integrative biology, psychology, and chemistry. After graduation, I plan on working in a lab for two years before pursuing medical school, hopefully somewhere in the city of Chicago. I am a very easy-going guy, content with a chill evening with friends or with a good show, movie, or book. I am always looking to foster new friendships so please come say hello! I am looking very forward to working with everyone and I hope that this experience will benefit you as much as I know it will benefit me!
Marcus Lane
I am currently a senior double-majoring in communication and psychology. I hope to pursue a career in human resources after I graduate. I am from Lansing, Ill., a south suburb outside of Chicago. Throughout my time here at U of I, I have been involved in a variety of activities including an honors fraternity, being a residence advisor, and a tour guide for campus. I am really excited to lead this course and help introduce everyone to our great campus. I am looking forward to meeting my section and getting to know you all throughout the semester!
Amanda Lawrence
Hi, I am a junior double-majoring in history and communication, preparing for a future career as an attorney. In the summer I am an outdoor day camp counselor where I really enjoy playing soccer in the mud with my camp kids! Other than that I love playing softball, enjoy reading, playing the viola, and hanging out with my two-year-old nephew. I also am a huge St. Louis Cardinals fan! I can’t wait to get to know my LAS 101 section and share all of the wonderful experiences I have had here at this amazing school and help you learn about all of the great opportunities being an Illini offers!
SuHak Lee
Hi, everyone! I’m a senior majoring in specialized chemistry. I’m originally from S. Korea and first came to the U.S. during my sophomore year in high school as an exchange student. On campus, I’m involved in volunteering at the Carle Foundation Hospital, Pre-Pharmacy Club, and Pre-Health Counsel. During my free time, I enjoy running, working out, playing sports, and generally learning new things! I’m extremely looking forward to the upcoming semester as an LAS 101 leader and would like to assist you in making a smooth transition into the University as much as possible. Welcome to the University of Illinois!
Katie Lenart
I am a senior in political science and English. I am also a James Scholar and member of Pi Sigma Alpha. I work as a figure skating instructor at the University of Illinois Ice Arena teaching Kinesiology 104. I spent some time as a technical director for Illini Union Board Musicals working on shows like Guys and Dolls in Assembly Hall. This will be my second time teaching LAS 101 and I am really excited to meet everyone. Here’s to a great year! Welcome to U of I!
Katy Malinowski
I’m from Bloomington, Ill., and I’ll be a senior in mathematics and computer science this year. I enjoy reading, playing games, and being active. I’m in a few different organizations here at U of I including Women in Computer Science, Alpha Gamma Delta, and Society of Women Engineers. I like to keep pretty busy and love to try out new things. I’m looking forward to this experience and I hope to learn a little bit from everyone in the program including other interns as well as the students. I also hope to share some of my experiences from my time here at U of I so that others can learn from me as well.
Elizabeth Mason
I am a senior in LAS majoring in international (aka global) studies. I like to dance and I LOVE to travel. I am your girl if you want to learn more about study abroad. I can’t wait to meet this year’s incoming class!
Jared Matthew
Hi everyone! I’m from Wilmette, Ill. I’m a junior and a James Scholar in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, majoring in both psychology and communication. Studying here at the University of Illinois has given me so many outstanding opportunities to grow as both a student and as an individual. I’ve been able to take countless courses of great interest to me, work in a renowned psychology lab, and make tons of new friends. Now, I have the chance to teach LAS 101 and share all of my valuable experiences with incoming freshmen. I am still unsure of what exactly the future holds for me, but I feel very prepared for whatever it has in store. I am so excited to be studying at this excellent university and gaining such a wealth of knowledge each and every day. Finally, to all of you freshmen coming here to U of I this fall, I would just like to say welcome. There is nothing as fun and exciting as your freshman year in college and I know you will all have an incredible time here at U of I. I look forward to meeting and getting to know all of you and hope you are ready to have an amazing semester!
Mary McCormack
I study poetry and Spanish. This doesn’t necessarily mean that I write poetry in Spanish, but it is fun to experiment with languages. One of my future goals is to become fluent in Hindi, and also to write a graphic novel or book of poems that at least one person finds inspiring. “Life is a raindrop before it touches the earth,” I wrote to some friends this year. There’s so much that happens in such little time. I’m already a senior in college. Life is stressful. Life is blissful. There’s a lot I still have to learn, and hopefully a lot my students can learn from me. Can’t wait to meet you all!!
Jun Meng
Hi everyone! I’m a senior majoring in psychology and statistics. I like watching movies, hanging out with friends, doing psychology research, etc. Piano is my forte. In the following year, I’ll share my college experience with you, and try my best to help you transit to college. Plus, I’m a really good listener! You can tell me anything you like to talk about. I’m looking forward to meet you, fellow students with different backgrounds and from different countries, and I’m sure we’ll have a great time together!
Amanda Mulcrone
Hello all! I am a senior majoring in chemistry and minoring in MCB from Downers Grove, Ill. After graduating this year I plan on attending medical school—but will miss U of I dearly! To make the most of this large school I am involved in undergraduate research, the Illinois Ski and Snowboard Club, a professional chemistry fraternity, IEMS, and being a teaching assistant for organic chemistry. I also enjoy running, watching sports, traveling, and having some fun! I cannot wait to meet you all and expose you to the many great things this college offers!
Ashley Norton
I am currently a senior and am majoring in MCB with an emphasis on pre-med. In my free time, I am also involved in organizations and activities on and off campus such as AMSA, Student Online Advisory Board, St. Jude Runs, Carle Hospital Volunteering, Relay for Life, undergraduate research, and Kappa Alpha Theta. I also enjoy running and each year I run the Chicago Marathon for fun. After my four years at Illinois, I hope to attend medical school and go on to become a doctor. Last year it was great to get to know the students and to lead an LAS 101 section. I am very excited for this year!
Suzanne Pearson
Hey guys! I am a senior here at the U of I majoring in psychology and Earth systems, the environment and society. My future plans include attending graduate school for social work and finding a way to promote social justice; if I can find a way to spend the rest of my life traveling around the world and volunteering, I will. In my spare time I paint, journal, read, bike, sing, run, and play outside. I love coffee; you can easily find me at any given night at a cafe around campus (I am writing this at Espresso Royale). I’m looking forward to leading an LAS 101 section because I love meeting new people and hearing others’ opinions and experiences. I’m sure we’ll have a great time in my LAS 101 section this fall!
Cecil Pendergrass
I am originally from Alabama but have been at U of I for four years majoring in international studies and minoring in linguistics and ESL. I studied abroad in Paris, France, for a semester, which was a fantastic experience both culturally and linguistically. After graduation I plan to do several years of volunteering either abroad or in the U.S. By being an LAS 101 leader I feel that I can pass down my knowledge and experiences to this year’s freshmen so that they may also grow into strong and successful students. I am excited to be able to get to know and motivate the next generation of U of I students and learn from them as much as I hope they will be able to learn from me.
Filip Pilatowski
I grew up in Chicago before moving out to the south suburbs. I attended Amos Alonzo Stagg High School where I was a member of the cross country and swim teams. After graduating in 2009 I began my studies at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign towards a bachelor’s degree in chemistry. My decision to attend U of I stemmed both from the favorable location as well as the school’s stellar reputation and history of scientific research in chemistry. Upon completion of my bachelor’s I hope to be accepted into the University’s graduate program to complete a master’s degree in the teaching of chemistry, along with certification to teach in Illinois high schools. The teachers I had in high school were highly influential, both in my approach to academics and daily life, and I hope to be able to reach the same level of influence on my students in the future. I believe that education is a key component in the growth and development of any individual, a process that was nurtured by my father, who was a physics professor at the University of Gdansk in Poland. I am very excited for the opportunity to be a TA for LAS 101, in order to refine my approach and develop my teaching strategy. I look forward to meeting all my students and working with you next year!
Nikki Pinakidis
Welcome Class of 2015! I am very excited to be guiding you as you transition into college at U of I this semester! I am a junior from Arlington Heights, Ill., and majoring in mathematics with a minor in secondary education. I am a Noyce Scholar and plan to teach high school math in a high needs area after graduating. This past summer I studied abroad in Verona, Italy, which heightened my love for traveling and cooking. Although I miss Italy already, I am very excited to return to campus. On campus, I am involved in the Epsilon Delta education organization, Delta Gamma sorority, Big Brothers Big Sisters organization, and Irwin Tutoring Services. I hope I can share as much knowledge as possible with you all to help you make your freshman year at U of I as exciting and enjoyable as mine was!
Chris Powers
Hi, I’m a junior molecular and cellular biology student. I am also currently the secretary of LIGASE club and the company outreach chair for the Illinois Biological Society. I can also be seen in my spare time working on prep staff in Burrill Hall for MCB classes. I look forward to a great LAS 101 semester with all my wonderful students!
Nicole Raucci
I am a senior in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences majoring in molecular and cellular biology and minoring in chemistry. Some organizations on campus I am involved in include the American Medical Student Association, R.E.A.C.T., Volunteer Illini Projects: Senior Citizens Project and Blood Project, and Kappa Alpha Theta. I love to travel, care for the elderly, and spend time with my family and friends. My career goal and dream is to work as a doctor in an underserved area. I remember how helpful it was to have an upperclassman to look up to when I was in LAS 101, so I am eager to now lead a section myself and serve as a mentor!
Maria Ricker
Hi! I am majoring in history with a minor in secondary education. In the spring, I will be student teaching at Hinsdale South High School. I am very interested in teaching at a high school in the Chicago suburbs after graduating; however, I eventually want to move out west and teach there. I am especially interested in teaching U.S. history and government classes. I enjoy traveling, photography, and watching and playing soccer and baseball. I am very excited to lead an LAS 101 section because it will give me more practice to work with students, something that will be very helpful in my future. I took a class very similar to this one when I was a freshman and found it useful as a new college student, and I hope to help new students transition to U of I.
Rebecca Spizzirri
Hey everyone! I’m a senior double-majoring in psychology and philosophy, currently working on my bachelor’s thesis. I’m passionate about social justice issues for women, and I have gotten involved in advocacy and volunteer crisis counseling services both on campus and in the CU community. My ultimate career goal is to work in the intersection of psychology and the law. When I’m not working on academic pursuits, you’re likely to find me getting some sun on the Quad or taking dance classes like swing or salsa. I had a blast leading an LAS 101 section last year, and I’m so excited to be coming back this year. Welcome to campus!
Patrick Stapleton
I am currently a senior in actuarial science. I am also pursuing a minor in business. After graduation, I hope to work as an entry-level actuary with either an insurance or consulting company. Outside of school, I am really into sports. I enjoy watching the Cubs, Blackhawks, and Bears. And of course, any of the Fighting Illini teams. During the summers, I caddy and play a lot of different sports, including softball and ultimate frisbee. I am really looking forward to leading an LAS 101 section because I enjoyed my section when I was a freshman and I think it is a very beneficial experience. I hope to pass on a lot of valuable information to freshmen and I really think it will be a great semester. To all the freshmen entering LAS, I would like to welcome you and let you know that you are in for a great college experience.
Matt Sturgeon
Hello, freshmen of the 2015 class! I’m a senior in psychology with the aim of getting into the field of human resource management. I thoroughly enjoyed helping the incoming class of 2014 learn about the campus and all of the resources it has to offer—and I’m excited to be doing it again this fall!
Charlie Swanson
I am currently a junior studying molecular and cellular biology and psychology. I plan on attending medical school in hopes of becoming a pediatrician. I am a lab assistant working on research projects in neuroscience with the Rhodes Lab. I am involved in Kids’n’Chem and programs at the Newman Center. Some of my hobbies include cooking, SCUBA diving, and swimming. LAS 101 is a great class and I am excited for the opportunity to be your learning leader and part of your first year at the University of Illinois. Let’s make it a great one!
Sarah Tanaka
I’m a senior in political science and English. I will be applying for various law schools this fall, because I hope to become a lawyer. I have a passion for traveling; I have been to Turkey, Africa, and almost every Caribbean island. New cultures and traditions fascinate and spark my curiosity. I’m very excited for this fall, especially leading this class.
Sakina Tayebali
Hi! I am a senior majoring in MCB and sociology with a minor in chemistry. I hope to pursue a career in a health-related field and plan to continue my education in medical or graduate school. I enjoy traveling and learning about different cultures; this summer I added Saudi Arabia to my list of countries I have visited. I also love to make and eat desserts (especially cupcakes). This is the second time I will be facilitating the LAS 101 course and am even more excited than the first time! I can’t wait to meet all the LAS freshmen and exchange some funny freshman stories and give some words of wisdom!
Kellie Taylor
I am a junior from Orland Park, Ill., majoring in molecular and cellular biology with a minor in chemistry. I have loved my time thus far at the U of I. I’m a squad leader in the Marching Illini Flag Corps, and also a member of the Illini Medical Screening Society. In my free time, I volunteer at Carle Hospital and enjoy spending time with friends. This past summer, I had an internship with Abbott Laboratories in Lake County, Ill. I plan to attend medical school after receiving my undergraduate degree, and am an aspiring pediatrician. I’m very excited to be teaching an LAS 101 section, and also look forward to meeting new freshmen and transfer students.
Gabe Torres
I am a senior here at U of I majoring in mathematics and Spanish and minoring in secondary education. My ultimate career goal is to become a high school math teacher. I am from Summit, Ill., (a south suburb). I went to Argo High School where I ran cross country and track for four years. I enjoy running, going to the movies, playing any sport, going out to eat, and being with my friends. I am also president of Alpha Psi Lambda Latino Fraternity here at the University. I am really excited about being an instructor for LAS 101 because I spent my first two years at this University as a vagabond, exploring many different majors, and now I am prepared to share my experiences with incoming freshmen! I look forward to meeting and working with all of you. Please come up and say hi!
Katie Unes
I’m a junior in LAS, majoring in integrative biology with a minor in human nutrition, and I want to attend dental school after graduation from Illinois. This photo was taken from the Eiffel Tower, and shows both my love of traveling and that it rains every time I visit Paris. I also love to read, spend time with my family, and pretend to be a gourmet chef by watching the Food Network. I’m so excited to lead an LAS 101 section this semester and can’t wait to meet the incoming freshman class—Go Illini!
Soniya Vasanwala
I am going to be a junior this fall majoring in molecular and cellular biology and minoring in chemistry. After graduating from the University of Illinois, I plan on attending dental school. Other interests I have are playing tennis, running, reading, watching movies, and hanging out with my friends. Some of my favorite books are Kite Runner, A Thousand Splendid Suns, To Kill a Mocking Bird, and the Harry Potter series. Some of my favorite movies are The Dark Knight, Bridesmaids, The Notebook, and Titanic. I also enjoying watching the TV shows Gossip Girl, Gilmore Girls, How I Met Your Mother, and Friends. This will be my first time teaching LAS 101 and I am very excited. Starting college is not easy, but hopefully LAS 101 can make the transition easier. I cannot wait to meet you guys in the fall, and I am sure it will be a great semester!
Brigitte Viard
I am a senior at the U of I, happily returning as an LAS 101 intern, and I hope to have the amazing experience that I had last year. I am a psychology and African American studies double-major, and I hope to earn a PhD in elementary and secondary administration and work within the high school setting. I am an avid volunteer, and started my own mentoring program (LIFT college access mentoring program) for high school students last semester at a local community center. I love kids, watching movies, and I absolutely love to travel!
Megan Visk
I’m majoring in Earth, society, and the rnvironment with a minor in geography. I’m from Homer Glen, Ill. In my free time I enjoy playing softball and disc golfing with my friends. I also really enjoy music and try to go to as many shows as possible. In the future, my sister and I hope to open an all-natural breakfast restaurant in Chicago. This will be my second year as an LAS 101 intern, and I can’t wait to meet my new students!
Maura Walsh
Hey! I am a pre-med student majoring in molecular and cellular biology. I just returned from a wonderful semester abroad in Grenada, and as a result have been getting really into some Mexican telenovelas lately. I am in an improv group on campus, have a pet hedgehog, love to read, and am very excited to be leading LAS 101 this fall. Hopefully I can help you incoming freshmen to not repeat the same mistakes I have made!
Will Walsh
I am majoring in history and minoring in social science secondary education. My goal is to become a high school social science teacher after I graduate from Illinois. I work part-time as a lifeguard with Campus Recreation. I am also involved in the Men’s Water Polo Club. I look forward to leading a section of LAS 101 and working with incoming students to adjust to the university lifestyle.
Lindsey Wehrli
Hi! I will be a senior this fall, double-majoring in Earth systems, environment and society (with a concentration in society and the environment) and gender and women’s studies. I enjoy hiking, love animals, and had the best time ever studying abroad in Thessaloniki, Greece, when I was a sophomore. Here in Champaign-Urbana I work as a waitress, and this summer I’ve been teaching an environmental education day camp for elementary-aged children with the Champaign County Forest Preserve District. When I have free time I like to read, explore, and play with my adorable new kitten, Yo-Yo Meow.
Annie Yonover
Hi, I’m a senior majoring in political science and minoring in Spanish. Last year I was the philanthropy chair for my sorority, Kappa Kappa Gamma, which allowed me to plan various events to raise money for Habitat for Humanity. I just recently got back from Verona, Italy, where I studied Italian culture and language. I enjoyed traveling to many places throughout Europe. I cannot wait to go back! This semester I will be busy applying to law schools in the Chicagoland area and I hope to attend law school next fall. I am not sure yet what I want to do in the future, but I enjoy working with people so I hope to pursue a career that allows me to interact with different kinds of people on a regular basis. I enjoy running, playing field hockey, going to the beach (when the weather is nice), and hanging out with my friends. I am very excited to be an LAS Intern this semester!
Eunice Yu
Hi, I’m from Lake Bluff, but most people don’t know where that is, so let’s just say it’s a northern suburb of Chicago. I’m a senior in psychology with an English minor, which is sort of exciting. I’m a total chatty Cathy who loves to stay active and enjoy the simple things in life such as a good pick-up game of soccer, hula hooping, ice cream, or writing. If I’m not in class, you’ll most likely find me laxin’ out on the Quad (no joke).
Kailey Zaucha
Welcome to the University of Illinois! I am a junior majoring in communication. After college, I plan to get a master’s in school counseling. I absolutely love getting to know new people, which is one of the many reasons why I am so excited to be an LAS 101 intern! I remember some of the difficulties I went through as a freshman, and I hope that I can help the new students adjust to the college lifestyle. These are four awesome years of your life! I enjoy spending time with friends and family, staying active, and relaxing. I love being around people, and I can’t wait to meet the class of 2015!