Claire Bevec

“I always say that I have big dreams and one specific career goal: Since I was a little kid, it’s always been my dream to work for National Geographic. I believe this goal is very realistically attainable because of my experiences here at Carthage. Aside from my Nat Geo dreams, I’d be happy doing anything to do with writing and sharing people’s stories, and I plan on spending a lot of my time traveling.”

“The faculty here at Carthage have had a primarily positive impact on my life. I am a college student dealing with all of the regular stressors of life — things like work, internships, school, etc. In addition to these typical challenges of life as a college student, I also deal with an extremally rare and severe disease that affects my life daily. The Carthage faculty have been nothing but kind, patient, and understanding of my medical complexities.

“For example, I got very sick in my first year of college and ended up in the hospital for a while. I was worried about the amount of work I’d have to make up while simultaneously trying to heal physically and emotionally. On my first day back on campus, one of my professors asked me to come to his office to talk. Instead of filling me in on the assignments and projects I’d need to make up, he said the following. ‘Forget about the work and the time that you’ve missed. How are you doing?’ This made me feel so seen and cared for. I realized that I had chosen the right college to attend.”

“My favorite class here at Carthage would have to be any of the creative writing classes. I’ve had two or three of these classes now, all with Professor Rick Meier. He’s an outstanding professor, and the classes allow me to explore my passion for writing and expand my creativity.”

“I was in the Carthage Choir as a freshman. This was a wonderful experience that I thoroughly enjoyed. It’s always fun to share your love of music with other people.”

“My most challenging class here at Carthage would have to be my Literature and Gender Queer Theory class. Professor Shannon Brennan is the kindest human being on the planet, but I’m definitely struggling in the class. However, I am learning a lot!”

“I am currently working as a communication/news writing intern in the Office of Marketing and Communications at Carthage. I have truly enjoyed every minute of this job, and I have learned so much. Especially as a commuter student, it has allowed me to meet so many students and faculty that I otherwise would not have met. This position has been my most significant experience so far here at Carthage!”

“I received the Laura Kaeppeler Scholarship. This scholarship is full tuition for four years, so it has meant everything to me. I would not be here at Carthage without it.”

“I have a fond memory during freshman orientation week. I had just gotten my very own puppy a few weeks earlier, and I decided to bring her to campus for one of the evening events outside. My pup, Daisy, was only about three months old at the time and everyone loved her! I couldn’t go one step without groups of people coming up to pet her. It was a great way to socialize! People asked me my name and what year I was and what I was studying. I met a lot of really awesome people, and it was a warm welcome to my first year of college.”

“It’s hard to pick just one spot. However, you’ll find me facing the lake more often than not. Whether I’m in class or studying independently, I always try to face the lake. Just being able to see it makes me so happy, and I feel like I’m more productive as well. I’ve lived almost my entire life here in Kenosha, and I don’t think I’ll ever get sick of the lake.”

“The biggest surprise was how much I really like college. I was not a fan of high school, and I’ve never been a straight-A student, but I am really enjoying my time here at Carthage. Everyone is so nice and I’ve gotten to explore so many of my passions. Carthage has provided many opportunities and good times!”

“I believe my 8-year-old self would be thrilled. I’ve always dreamt about working for National Geographic. This is a genuine possibility because of the road I’m on, the connections I’ve made, and the opportunities I’ve had here at Carthage. 8-year-old Claire would be ecstatic!”

“The thing I like about my communication major is how broad it is. I’m a person who enjoys many things, and I had trouble picking just one thing to focus on. The combination of my communication major and creative writing minor makes for a well-rounded education that I feel has already opened many doors.”

“I initially chose to apply to Carthage because I grew up just a few blocks away. My parents met and fell in love at Carthage when they worked here years ago. Carthage has always been in my family, so it solidified my decision to attend when I received my scholarship.”