Learn why Maria Aschenbrener ’21 choose Beloit as told through her Q&A with the admissions office. 

Q: So Maria, tell us a little bit about yourself so we can get to know you.

 

A: Well, I’m the second of six children and I was raised by my grandmothers. I love making people smile, making art, and interacting with nature. I am a fierce advocate for environmental, gender, racial, and sexuality justice. I love my family and friends very much and spend as much time with them as I can. I am currently off campus studying abroad in Florence, Italy.

 

Q: What are you majoring in?

 

A: I’m double majoring in Studio Art and Education. I couldn’t decide which I liked more so I decided to do both.

 

Q: Have there been any classes that surprised you?

 

A: I never expected to love my geology course as much as I did. As an art and education double major, sciences aren’t really my thing. But my friend Sophie told me how much she loves taking classes within the Geology department so I agreed to take one with her. I fell in love with it from the very beginning. The fact that we were learning about Earth’s history, its natural wonders, and predicting where it is going on the current track was incredible and I loved every second of the class.

 

Q: What kind of activities are you involved in outside of the classroom?

 

A: This is actually one of my favorite things about Beloit! There are so many different ways to get involved on campus. There’s a club for just about everything and if it isn’t a thing now, all you need is a few other people that are interested and you can form your own club! I’m a member of the Beloit Ultimate Frisbee Family (BUFF), Art Club, Outdoor Environmental Club (OEC), Feminist Collective (FemCo), and I work for admissions as a Tour Guide.

 

Q: What’s been your favorite experience at Beloit thus far?

 

A: The best experience I’ve had at Beloit was finding one of the most incredible of communities out there. The people I surround myself with at Beloit are hardworking, caring, and want what’s best for those around them as well as for themselves; in a way that is self loving. I know that the students, professors, and other staff members will always be my friends no matter the distance or time apart. I am incredibly honored that I found these amazing people.

 

Q: Why Beloit?

 

A: Because Beloit makes me strive to be the best side of me and I never feel like a burden or unloved. I am encouraged to embrace my true self and never be ashamed of what I do and who I am. This place is truly the best place for me where I have been able to grow so much and I have found how to be truly happy and full of love.