Human Ecology students weigh in on what surprised them most about the College of Human Ecology (CHE).

Nicholas F. | Human Development | 2023 | Michigan

I was most surprised by the impact Human Ecology's mission had on my worldview. The essence of Human Ecology is maximizing the relationship between human beings and their environments through interdisciplinary methods. I have been able to expand my worldview and am challenged to think creatively and collaboratively to discover new solutions to issues. Though I am mainly passionate about policy, I now understand how biology, sociology, and other subjects impact my desired field. Human Ecology has expanded my horizons in many ways, and I am excited to see how it will continue to do so in the future.

Siona G. | Policy Analysis and Management | 2024 | Illinois

What surprised me the most about the College of Human Ecology is that it is home to so many different fields of study and that CHE students are brought together by a common intrinsic desire to improve the human experience. Despite the pandemic, the College's close-knit community not only allowed me to stay socially connected with other PAM students, but also to connect with so many other CHE students across majors. I'm grateful to be a part of the smaller CHE community within the larger University!

Julia J. | Human Biology, Health, and Society | 2023 | New Jersey

Perhaps the most pleasant surprise to me about Human Ecology was the distinctive humanitarian foundation on which it was built: to grant access to education to those typically left behind and to convey the value of knowledge in addressing real-world needs. As a student pursuing medicine, I find it imperative to seek the human responsibility of meeting the community on a personal level to improve human lives. The ethos of the college constantly inspires me to embody the community's core values in my studies!

Carolina A. | Human Development | 2024 | Honduras

What surprised me the most about Human Ecology is the way that it challenges me to think differently. It has shown me that thinking in an interdisciplinary manner will help me see the world in a better, more diverse, way. The ability to learn about so many things in so many different areas allows you to see connections in places that you never thought could connect. Human Ecology gives students an interdisciplinary view of the world and perspectives no student could ever find in any other place.

Aidan C. | Fiber Science | 2024 | California

I was surprised by the flexibility the College of Human Ecology gives to students to help explore their unique interests. As I explore Human Ecology’s resources and observe the accomplishments of current students and alum, I cannot help but acknowledge the variety of skills, and how such skills apply to a multitude of careers. When I walk through the halls of FSAD, DEA, and HD research labs, my head spins with a bevy of questions, such as, “How does fashion shape who we are?”, “How can I transfer knowledge of human biology to concrete media?”, and “How can I use fiber science to influence the future of environmental design, and how can this design be used to create new sustainable policies?”

Cailin L. | Policy Analysis and Management | 2023 | Indiana

The size of the college is one of the biggest strengths of Human Ecology. We have the intimacy of a small college with the resources of a large one. The advisors and faculty take the time to get to know you and go to great lengths to see you succeed academically and professionally, as well as to help you find a path that will bring you happiness. I have received invaluable advice from my professors and from advisors that truly have shaped my life plans. This was something I never expected, but it is by far my favorite part of being a part of this college.

Jerome D. | Human Biology, Health, and Society | 2023 | California

Two of the most unexpected aspects of the College of Human Ecology are how diversified the academic departments are and how students are encouraged to explore the connections within these disciplines. I have taken courses in three different Human Ecology academic departments and have found important takeaways that are applicable to my own academic and career interests. Exposure to these communities, full of diverse ideas and backgrounds, has allowed me to synthesize more comprehensive questions and solutions to the challenges that I see.

Benjamin J. | Policy Analysis and Management | 2023 | New York

Experiencing the collaborative dynamic between Human Ecology students was something I did not expect. I have been surprised by the camaraderie amongst students working in the same classes. The professors make a clear effort to encourage teamwork, and the students feel as though we are in this together. This environment makes work feel like fun and allows students to be a part of a strong Human Ecology community. I love the Human Ecology atmosphere and all that it has offered me.

Amer A. | Human Biology, Health, and Society | 2022 | Pennsylvania

Being on campus and experiencing the advantages of a smaller school as well as the resources of an Ivy League research university has been amazing. I have access to academic and personal counseling like college counselors, faculty advisors, and pre-med advisors. The individual focus is a tangible benefit I appreciate. The college’s academic programs offered are multidisciplinary in nature and have challenged me to think critically about how I can combine other areas of study.