Major: exploratory
Hometown: Ridgefield CT
Hobbies: Community council, Writing
Her Campus Ithaca College: How has your first year been so far?
McKinley Walsh: My first year has been a whirlwind. I’ve never been so stressed or so happy before. Trying to balance the heavy workload with my social life and the things I want to do on and off campus has been rough, but it’s been very rewarding so far.
HCIC: What are your favorite parts about IC? What are your least favorites?
MW: One of my favorite things about IC is definitely the people. Since coming to Ithaca, I’ve met so many new people with so many different viewpoints. Seeing them all mix together has definitely shaped me for the better. I wouldn’t say I have a least favorite part of IC, but one thing I’m not too thrilled with are the dorm room communal bathrooms.
HCIC: What drew you to Her Campus?
MW: One of the things that drew me to Her Campus was the freedom. I’m able to write about virtually whatever I want, and I get to work with the other amazing Ithaca Her Campus ladies.
HCIC: Where is your favorite place on campus or in town to study and why?
MW:My favorite place to study on campus is in the Peggy Ryan Williams building. It’s quiet and warm, with lots of windows, making in the perfect place to relax and soak in everything I need to.
HCIC: What else are you involved with on campus?
MW: I’m involved in my cluster’s community council as an Eco Rep. Along with promoting a sustainable mindset in West Tower and around campus. But, I also help my other community council members plan events to make West Tower a better place to live.
HCIC: How has it been to be exploratory in your first year?
MW: Being exploratory has been interesting. I’m given the freedom to take mostly whatever I want, but I’ve also been asked to find my own direction. Although I’ve managed to find where I think I want to go, it has not been easy.
HCIC: How has college changed the way you think about yourself or about the world?
MW: College has pushed me way out of my comfort zone. I never imagined myself planning events for my residence hall, or even writing for Her Campus. Even though six months ago I never pictured myself doing the things I’m doing now, I love the person I’ve become.