Alexandra Campbell, a junior from Auburn majoring in history with a minor in business management, studied abroad in Spain during the summer. The study abroad program was in Seville, where JSU students spent a month studying with Dr. Eduardo Pacheco. That program is available again for Summer 2023. Campbell is also taking advantage of the opportunity to do an internship for credit.

When did you know that JSU was the right school for you?

I knew JSU was the right place for me when I did a campus visit during my senior year of high school and met with Dr. Harvey (at the time department head of history), and he answered every question I had and I could truly see myself studying here and growing into the person I want to be one day.

What are some benefits of your major?

One huge benefit of my major is I’m not restricted with career options. History majors have opportunities to go many ways, whether it be teaching, law school, museum work, library work, or anything truly. I believe a history major is a solid foundation to begin any career a person can want.

What is your favorite thing about JSU?

I think my favorite thing about JSU is the size and location. I never wanted to go to a big school, and JSU is the right size for me. This area the university is in is one of the most beautiful places I have ever been, but I’ve also always loved the mountains regardless. I feel at home and at peace at JSU, and I would have to say that is my favorite thing about this place.

What clubs/organizations are you involved in?

I am in my 3rd year of the Honors Program.

What is one way that you have grown during your time at JSU?

I feel that during my time at JSU I have grown into a more mature, responsible, and thoughtful person. JSU has taught me more than just what we study in the classroom; it has taught me how to be a successful and responsible adult. I’ve learned better time management from procrastinating one too many times on assignments, I’ve learned to be thoughtful and open minded through the many group projects I’ve had the opportunity to work on, and I’ve learned to grow up and to start thinking about my future seriously instead of telling myself over and over that I don’t have to worry yet.

What is your favorite course that you have taken?

If I absolutely had to pick one class I’ve taken to be my favorite, I would probably pick my Honors U.S. History I class. I choose this class because I liked the material we learned, but the way my professor for that class taught us the material was done so well that even now I can remember specific details we learned. I have not had a bad experience with a class here at JSU, so picking just one class is hard.

Any recent accomplishments?

I recently started an internship with the Berman Museum in Anniston after having spent a few months volunteering with them. I’m very excited for this opportunity and looking forward to learning all I can.

Tell us about your experience studying abroad. How has it benefited you?

My experience studying abroad was amazing. I learned so much and it has broadened my horizons so much. I learned better time management because if you were late you weren’t just missing material, you were learning material in a different language, which made it more difficult to just jump in if you were late. I learned about many different cultures and different ways of life and ways to approach life and different issues. I treasure the memories and friendships I made in Spain and every day I am glad I went.

What do you plan to do after you graduate?

After I graduate, I plan to go to graduate school to get a master’s degree because I hope to be a museum registrar or collections manager one day.

What is a fun fact about yourself?

A fun fact about me is that I am in the process of (slowly) restoring a 1966 Mustang named Miley with my boyfriend :).

What advice do you have for first-year students?

It may sound cheesy, but take advantage of all of the resources that the University offers. Tutoring, the Writing Center, office hours with your professors. These are all amazingly useful resources that can and will help you succeed and understand any material you are struggling with. Most importantly, have fun. You are not supposed to be miserable. Rush Greek life if you want to, join clubs if there is one that fits your interests, meet people who you can be yourself with and hold onto them because you never know how important good friends are until it feels like you’re alone. These years are what our parents and everyone says are supposed to be the wonder years or the best years of our lives for a reason. Live up to all of the hype you have heard about college and make it your own.