It’s hard to find a student on this campus who doesn’t know the RA of Durfee this year. Involved in dozens of activities, this cheery boy on campus manages to not only keep himself busy, but helps everyone he can in the process. He currently holds the title of Mr. Hobart after his impressive win of the competition his first-year, meet Taner Bennerson ’18, one of this week’s Campus Celebrities!
Name: Taner Bennerson
Class Year: 2018
Major: Environmental Studies (undeclared)
Minor: Sociology (undeclared)
Hometown: Brooklyn, New York
HC: What’s it like being a new RA?
TB: Being an RA is great. I get to meet new people and have them look up to me as a role model; I aspire to be a good one. But most importantly, I’m able to help guide first years in a positive direction.
HC: Why did you choose HWS?
TB: HWS was my top choice because it had a homey feeling from the beginning. You get to make connections on this campus that are unbelievable, with both students and staff. Even though it’s a small school, it has the same vibe as a big school.
HC: What was the hardest part about coming to college?
TB: Everyone is so different here, it was an adjustment learning to understand how people react to things and think differently from how I do. It definitely wasn’t a bad thing, though. Seeing the perspectives of others is really important.
HC: What else are you involved in on campus?
TB: I’m involved in club sports, including volleyball, football, crossfit, and basketball. I am a member of the RHA board and Day of Service board. I’m also employed at the Post Office, IT Services, and as a cook in the Pub, as well as the RA for Durfee. That’s not even the complete list!
HC: What was it like winning Mr. Hobart as a freshman, and being involved in the whole thing?
TB: It was really shocking. I didn’t think I would win at first, and I was very nervous. The day before the show, I couldn’t perform any of the acts correctly, and I honestly didn’t even want to be part of the event! The only reason I did was because I liked the fact that it was a fundraiser. I was proud to take part in something that would help others.
HC: How do you balance all of your activities and still have a social life? It doesn’t seem possible!
TB: To be honest, I don’t even know how I do it. I think seeing happy people on this campus helps me balance my stress, or at least maintain a good attitude about everything.
Favorites:
Class at HWS: History
Spot on campus: How could I pick one?!
Aspect of HWS: Seneca Lake and the people
Movie: Inception
Celebrity Crush: Jennifer Lawrence or Halle Berry
Past Time: Spending time with friends