Senior Profile: Jackie Fahrenholz

Photo courtesy of Jackie Fahrenholz.

What is your major and minor? What other academic programs were you a part of?

Environmental studies concentrating in earth systems science, biology, and policy and management; minors in biology and sociology; academic programs: Tri Beta.

What organizations were you a part of at McDaniel? What positions did you hold?

Four year member of women’s soccer team, captain Fall 2019 season.

Have you enjoyed your time at McDaniel? If so, what did you enjoy the most?

I enjoyed the small school atmosphere at McDaniel that allowed me to balance my time between fostering relationships with my friends and being successful in the classroom. McDaniel also allowed me to make an impact on the global community through the opportunities they provided for studying abroad.

Who do you think was/is your best mentor?

Dr. Jason Scullion pushed me to be my best and helped me reach my academic goals while at McDaniel and pursue a graduate degree after my time ends here.

Describe your favorite memory at McDaniel.

Summer research on campus is probably one of the most exciting times of the year. My research allowed us to get outside from time to time and enjoy campus in the summer (which is beautiful as we all know). You get to spend time with classmates and professors from all different departments during events where they bring food and games in for us to play.

What are some of the challenges you encountered and how did you overcome them?

When studying abroad, I experienced a course load that was intense in a different way than McDaniel had previously challenged me with. Without my home institution friends and professors to support me I struggled from time to time as my program was demanding. However, I made sure to stay in touch and reach out to my support network throughout my time there to ease the process.

What are your plans for after graduation?

Pursue a Master of Environmental Management degree at Duke University.

What would you tell yourself as a first-year student at McDaniel?

Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone by taking advantage of classes that are offered because you may find that your interests lie elsewhere as we all develop throughout our four years here.