Meet Eric Conklin ’17, a chemistry pre-med student with a interest in studio art, English and the perfect iced coffee.
Tell me about where are you from:
I was born in Fort Knox, Kentucky, but raised in sunny Scottsdale, Arizona. I graduated from Chaparral High School, home of the Firebirds, in 2013. I played basketball and I was a member of the Art and the Math club.
How does the weather at Amherst compare to the weather back home?:
I hadn’t really seen snow till I came to Amherst College. I thought it was really pretty when I first saw it. I’ve since changed my mind! I still haven’t made a snowman, but I’ve had plenty of snowball fights.
Why did you choose to attend Amherst?: Well I didn’t choose Amherst right away. I went to the University of Arizona my first year, and then transferred to Amherst College. I wanted to go somewhere where I could focus on school. I’m glad I was given the opportunity to attend Amherst, even if it was just for three years.
What are you interested in both academically and leisurely?: I am a pre-med chemistry major, but I also enjoy Studio Art and English. I like to go into town and read a nice (text)book over a cold glass of ice coffee, even in the winter. When the weather is nice, I like to take my bike on the bike path or go running through the bird sanctuary. I also enjoy swimming at Pratt pool, and cannon ballin’ off the diving boards.
What are you passionate about the most?:
Grande Iced coffees with 2% milk and no sweetener. Also talking with people!
Tell me the best memory of your first year:
At Amherst? Being the Madden ’16 champion of Morrow dormitory second floor. (Its a football video game!)
What are your plans for the rest of your time at Amherst and beyond:
I’d like to keep experimenting in my experimental painting class. I would also like to meet more people here in Amherst, because there are a ton of great people at Amherst that I haven’t had the chance to meet!
What is the best compliment you’ve received?:
Being nominated for Campus Profile!