One of my favorite parts about a new school year is meeting new people. My roommate’s sister, Allena Staples, transferred to Vanderbilt this past fall and she’s essentially become another roommate. I wanted to ask her about the transfer process and how it’s been transitioning to a new school. I loved being a part of The Commons as a freshman and it was interesting to hear her take on what it’s like being a Vandy student without that.
What made you decide to transfer?
I’m the kind of person that finds a niche anywhere, but at my last school, I felt like fitting in would mean caring less about my education. I didn’t want to sacrifice my ambitions for my social life. To anyone out there considering transferring for any reason, college is important – which means it’s even more important that you feel like you’re in a place where you can reach your full potential – don’t be afraid to admit you aren’t satisfied with your surroundings! It’s all uphill from there.
What do you like about Vanderbilt?
The Vanderbilt community is self-sufficing and involved. Students take real initiative and the administration gives them room to do so effectively. You can tell automatically that everyone here is excited to take advantage of all the privileges they have access to.
Do you have any critiques to the Vanderbilt transfer program?
I definitely wish there was a constructed transfer community the way that there’s a freshman community. Transfers are equally as new and uncomfortable at first. I lucked out because my older sister is a senior here, but if she hadn’t been I’m not sure how well I would have oriented.
What’s your major?
I’m majoring in Classics, but more specifically Ancient Greek. I’ve been taking Greek for 5 years now and I can’t really think of anything I’m as passionate about academically.
What do you hope to do post-grad?
The Roman Law class I’m taking this semester has officially cemented how badly I want to go to Law School! Wish me luck on the LSAT!
Have you been able to explore Nashville yet?
I’ve been to Loveless Café, and spent some time on Broadway and Music Row downtown. My favorite outing so far was definitely Food Truck day at Centennial Park, but seeing A Midsummer Nights Dream in the park was pretty fun too.