Carla Louca
Stillman College, Class of 2023
Major: Religion
What did you think about college before you attended?
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I thought that college was going to be ridiculously hard, and although I knew I wanted to attend college, I could just never really picture myself as a college graduate.
What did you think about college before you attended?
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College seemed like a very foreign concept to me before attending, and I’ve had to build relationships with professors in order to really understand the process, especially now that I am applying for grad schools.
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What do you love about your college?
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Stillman College is more than just a community — we’re a family! The faculty and staff know my name and care about my well-being, and I really love that sense of belonging that I feel at Stillman. I also have an incredible academic advisor who has really changed my life and helped me to believe in myself.
What has been the most impactful experience or class during your time in college?
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The best classes I have ever taken are Introducing Africana Religions and Christianity in Africa, Asia, and Latin America. These courses created in me a deep interest and enthusiasm for religion in the African context, and I hope to study this topic in graduate school.
What advice would you give a high school student preparing for college?
Don’t allow yourself to get overwhelmed! No matter what you are experiencing as you prepare for college, rest assured that other students know and understand how you feel. You’ll find out quickly that there are so many resources at your college, so always remember to reach out and ask for help when you need it.
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What does it mean to you to have been chosen as a Renaissance Scholar?
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It is such a tremendous honor to be chosen as a Renaissance Scholar because it often feels like the students who are destined for success are the ones who come from well-educated families, but TRF has proven to me that your background doesn’t define your ability to succeed, and that people like me can grow to be more than our circumstances. Being a Renaissance Scholar has instilled confidence in me, and I know I can achieve my goals, no matter how high I set the bar.
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Any advice for students applying for the Renaissance Scholars Program?
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Be authentic when you write your personal statements! Let your personality shine and show the team at TRF just how fantastic you truly are!
Are you a Renaissance Scholar? Current scholars and alumni can share their stories here.