Maggie Wallace

I primarily chose UM for the Classics department. I felt that it was the best option for me in the programs that I wanted to complete or even just consider. Also, I felt that the campus life was one of the more diverse that I had seen. It's easy to find and be a part of one specific niche or explore several different interests or callings. For me, it's a comfortable environment.

The original idea started from how I like people. I like seeing the progression and advancements of people over history, and I've always been extremely fascinated in ancient histories and mythologies, specifically that of Ancient Greece and Rome. Yes, I was and still am very much a Percy Jackson kid, and obviously that influenced me, but the more I got around to looking into the actual histories and mythologies, the more invested I became. I also developed a strong interest in the languages of different regions and how it is formed and has developed over time, and the patterns found within language is a very satisfying thing to observe.

From a social standpoint, you're going to be asked the question, "what is that?" nearly every time you tell someone your major. Every now and then, you'll get the ever-lovely, "And what are you planning to do with that?" And it's ok to not entirely know yet. If you enjoy what you're doing and like learning about the funky little histories of ancient societies that were and continue to be super influential in today's world, then you go right on and do that. There are many, many routes you can take with Classics as well as a near endless amount of invaluable skills obtained from the degree path that will benefit you no matter what you decide on doing later in life. From an academic standpoint, there is also a near endless number of ancient sources and scholarly commentaries, so buckle up, and get ready to read.

I think it's special because of its size and because of the people. It's really easy to become at least acquainted with a good bit of the department, whether it's through shared classes or one of the events, or even just in passing while waiting for your next class. Just about everyone I've met has been extremely friendly and genuinely really fun to talk to. I feel like with some of the much larger departments, it's harder to get that type of connection with both your peers and your teachers, and I feel like those connections are at least a small part of what makes learning about these things so enjoyable.

1. The Professors
2. My Peers
3. The events put on by the department

Dr. Brad Cook. I've only been able to take two of his classes, but he is probably been one of the best and most supportive teachers I've ever had. He's always been so genuinely invested in his classes and so obviously passionate about his field. This is most definitely true of all of the Classics professors that I've had, but for Dr. Cook, there have just been specific instances with me and that I have witnessed with other students that have just been so encouraging. I know I have pestered this poor man so much about sources, but he never fails to answer my questions or at least provide the information needed to find the answer for myself. His classes are so enjoyable, and he makes some of the most dense and heaviest topics more comprehensible.

I think my most memorable moment was from this past semester's Taste of Classics event. I got to sit with my friends and listen to people recite classical passages and poetry, and it was just so much fun. A few of my friends actually went up and read their poems in the most theatrical and over-the-top way possible, and I don't think I've laughed that hard since.

I'm not entirely sure on exactly what I want to do, but I am certain that I want to go to grad school. I'm trying to figure out if I want to further pursue Classics or Linguistics, or, if both, which to go for first, and what all I could do with either. It's a lot of thinking still yet to be done, but fortunately for me, I do have a little bit of time to decide. I feel that I would be happy in whatever I pursue in either field as I do love them equally. As of right now, I'm content to study my little heart out and learn about what I love. It sounds a little cliché, but only time will tell what happens next.

Most of the time, if I'm hanging out with friends, we'll either go out to eat dinner or see a movie. If I'm by myself though, I'm usually crocheting, reading, or watching something.

On Campus: Panda, Off Campus: Toyo, El Agave, or Volta

I'm watching several shows at the moment of various genres, but I just started The Witcher and rewatching Sherlock, so I guess those are the main ones at the moment.

Greece and Rome, obviously, but also several other countries across Europe, Asia, the Americas, etc. A bucket list goal of mine is to visit at LEAST one or two countries in each inhabited continent.

I know everyone says this, and it can get kind of old, but it's important. I promise, the vast majority of your teachers do want to help you succeed. You can go to office hours; they're not thinking any less of you because you didn't get it the first time. Some of this stuff can be quite difficult to grasp, and it's ok to need help sometimes. You're ok, you're doing great, and you'll make it through. You made it here; you've got this.