Gabrielle Ruggles is a sophomore doubling majoring in communication and political science. Read on to learn more about her experience as a student at LAS.
Deciding to enroll as a student in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign was one of the best decisions I could have made for myself in my senior year of high school. Now, two years since then, I have grown in so many ways because of this decision. I would not change a single thing about this at first stressful but ultimately rewarding process.
What I love most about the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences or LAS for short, is how welcoming of a space it is. Being a student in this college, I have felt supported, understood, and challenged in my studies. There are countless resources available and faculty members who want to see their students succeed. The most support I received was when I decided to add a double major in political science on top of my communication major. My communication advisor helped me to see that this was possible. My decision to double major in communication and political science felt like a natural progression in my college career. I believe that all majors and minors in LAS have something to offer for every student.
My communication and political science courses have helped set the foundation for my dream of attending law school. I have found meaning in my courses in one way or another. A communication course that I enjoyed was CMN 102: Introduction to Communication with Professor Brian Quick. I took this course my first semester of college. This class took place in a lecture hall that could fit more students than were in my high school graduating class. Although the size of the class took time to get used to, I adapted to Professor Quickâs teaching style fast. I will always remember the communication skills I learned in this class and how much I looked forward to attending each week. A political science course I enjoyed was PS 270: Introduction to Political Theory with Professor Benjamin Miller. I enjoyed this class because it helped deepen my interest in political science and challenged my ways of thinking. It also reaffirmed why this major was a good fit for me.
Something that I enjoy about the College of LAS is the spaces that it offers to students. I have spent a lot of time doing homework in the LAS Hub, a tucked away study space in Lincoln Hall. I also enjoy how much of my classes take place on the Main Quad. The feeling of walking out to the Quad after a difficult exam is a memory I will never forget. The College of LAS helped to shape my college experience in more ways than I can count.
I do not know what the future holds for my next two years of college, but I am forever glad that I choose LAS at Illinois. My LAS experience led me to being the individual I am today. This decision helped me to be a better student, stronger friend, and a more confident person.