LAS students, including MCB major Michael Kraft, recently shared how they saw the Power of I through the individuality they experienced on campus.

Each person you see walking to their classes has a unique story waiting to be told. My very first class was LAS 101, which enrolled students from all over LAS. I did not know a single person in that class, but in 8 short weeks I did. We had some of the most thought-provoking discussions, as we all came from different backgrounds. I learned so much from our conversations about the hometowns we grew up in, what got us interested in our majors, or even our debates over the best Harry Potter movie. All of us have something that can be shared with one another through our own perspectives.

My background is in cells and chemicals, so my classes have been focused on learning biological pathways and chemical reactions. I had no idea how interesting the geography of Europe could be or how enthralled I was to learn about the history of civilizations in East Asia. Because of what I learned from my classmates, I have carried those interests with me by pursuing courses ranging from the Arab world to the ethics behind medicine. From the very start of my journey in college, I have been surrounded by people who have had the most fascinating stories and are full of distinct perspectives.

Here at Illinois, our individuality is what serves as the basis of what makes our campus so special.