Name: Alexandra Kuenning (but I go by Xandie)
Major: Currently Journalism – will be International Affairs with minors in Journalism and Psychology
Year: 2nd year
Where is your favorite place in Boston?
I am always discovering new places in Boston that I love. At the moment, I have three favorite places in Boston: the Museum of Fine Arts, the Mount Auburn Cemetery, and Brookline. The MFA is just so close, it’s great for visiting on a cold day and getting lost in the many rooms. A bit weirder is the Mount Auburn Cemetery, which I highly recommend seeking out on a warm day (in other words not anytime soon). Located in Cambridge, it is a huge park, full of rolling green hills, lakes, and a tower with a great view of downtown Boston. Finally, Brookline has everything from an artsy theatre, various festivals, to an amazing little bakery with the closest thing to a German pretzel that I’ve ever had.
What are you involved in on campus?
I am involved in three clubs on campus. The first of which is, of course, Her Campus. I am also the music editor for Artistry Magazine and a writer for Global Journal.
What has been your favorite class at NU?
I think my favorite class so far, which I’m actually taking this semester, is Peoples and Cultures. It is an anthropology course. The teacher, Carie Hersh, is amazing, and everything we learn in the class is interesting. Even though it’s an 8am, it’s my favorite class to go to, and I look forward to it every day.
Where will you be studying abroad?
I am hoping to study abroad in Salzburg, Austria next semester. I actually got a phone call a few days ago saying I got scholarship money to participate, but the school itself nor GEO hasn’t emailed me about my acceptance. I’m a little worried they made a mistake!
What are you most excited for during your study abroad time?
I’m most excited about having the opportunity to travel. The school system is set up so we always have three-day weekends, which allows a lot of time to see new places. I definitely have caught the wanderlust bug due to living abroad at a young age. I am also thrilled about getting to immerse myself in a German-speaking country and improve my language skills.
What’s your dream job?
My dream job, which is not something I am actually studying for, would be what I call a fairytale anthropologist. My favorite stories to read are fairy tales or those inspired by such stories. I have always been inspired by those in this field such as the Grimm Brothers, Andrew Lang, and Jane Yolen. I think it’s absolutely fascinating how cultures around the world can have similar tales. It also relates to many of the subjects I am interested in from history to psychology.
Best piece of advice you’ve received?
I honestly have no idea.