Priscilla Lagunas

What is your major and why did you pick it? 

I am a computer science major. My brother introduced me to coding, and I have been in love with it ever since. In high school, I was part of Girls Who Code, a club that aims to include women in coding and gives them opportunities that they may lack otherwise. I have also been a  part of the Leadership Academy, which is similar to Girls Who Code. They trained us for job interviews and, for the final project, we had to work to give back to society. I decided to mentor students from my high school in the computer science field. I also realized that I found anthropology and sociology very interesting after taking a few classes here at Knox. Since I need only two classes to achieve all the credits for the major, it simply made sense to take it up. That's what makes so much sense to me about Knox: The liberal arts education gives me the opportunity to explore something outside my area of expertise, and I love it!

What are some of the other activities you have undertaken since your time here at Knox?

The Knox College McNair Scholars Program formed a great part of my experience at the College. This is part of the federal TRIO program that gives first-generation and modest-income students support to settle into college and throughout their four years. As a McNair scholar, I had the opportunity to indulge in a fully funded research project of my choice. My research analyzed the portrayal of the issues that occur at the Mexican-American border through the lens of both Mexican and American films. Through the McNair program, I realized that I love doing research and it is one of the things that pushed me to pursue a degree in anthropology and sociology. 

The TRIO program was especially beneficial as it helped me organize my course load. It also allowed me to participate in various events and activities. For instance, we went to Iowa to watch the Haydestown at Des Moines Performing Arts as part of one of our cultural excursions. This term, we had a painting event as a welcome back, which was a great way to start the new winter term! 

I am also the secretary of LoNuestro, a Latinx cultural club. I was encouraged by a friend to join the club in my sophomore year and have been an active member ever since. As the secretary, I am responsible for the administration of the club: sending emails, organizing events, and holding elections, to name a few duties. The cultural clubs are a great way to stay true to one's roots and even discover new cultures. At LoNuestro we welcome everyone and want to share our culture. For instance, we took students to a Latinx film festival, organized an event for Dia de Los Muertos (Day of the Dead), and did many more activities! 

What is some advice you would give to new students? 

It is important to experiment, put yourself out there, and explore different things. You don’t need to come to college with a fixed plan, and if you do, it is okay to change it. Knox provides students with a plethora of opportunities and it's crucial to seize them. Carrying out my McNair project made me realize that I love the process of research, and that grad school is something I ought to consider. Simply put, it’s vital to step out of your comfort zone. Knox is the perfect place for that. The professors care about you and will do their best to help you succeed.