For Alaina Engdahl of Columbus, Ohio, Bill Nye the Science Guy played a central role in developing her love of science at a young age. Wittenberg took that love even further, setting Engdahl on a path to double major in chemistry and peace and conflict studies.
鈥淏ecoming a chemistry major was a natural choice,鈥� Engdahl said. 鈥淗owever, I came to the realization freshman year that I needed to balance out my science courses with humanities. After some consideration, I realized that Wittenberg already offers nearly all of the courses needed to complete a peace and conflict studies major; they are just scattered across multiple departments. I approached professors from the political science, history and sociology departments, and together we created an interdepartmental major.鈥�
Her well-rounded program has since caught the attention of a research institution up north. The University of Michigan has accepted Engdahl into its Ph.D. in medicinal chemistry.
With graduation nearing, Engdahl thinks the confidence-building that has occurred through her courses of study, campus life and connection to her Kappa Delta sisters remains a defining element of her college experience.
鈥淲ittenberg has what you need in order to make your dreams a reality,鈥� she said. 鈥淏ecause I came to school at Wittenberg, I was able to create my own major, study abroad in Northern Ireland, have three summer chemistry research experiences, and form strong relationships with both my professors and my fellow students."
