Meet the AQ Student Ambassadors

Name: Nick Anderson
Academic Standing: Junior
Major(s): Business & Communication with a Marketing Concentration
Hometown: Vicksburg, Mich.
E-mail address: nsa001@aquinas.edu
AQ clubs /organizations/sports: Resident Assistant, Intramural Sports, Service Learning, and Woodward Area Council.
Something fun/interesting/unique about you: I bleed Honolulu Blue & Silver! (Detroit Lions fan).
Most unique experience at AQ? Service Learning at Acadia National Park in Maine. From the road trip to actually being in the park.
Why did you want to be an AQ Ambassador? To show prospective students why I love Aquinas!
What is your favorite thing about AQ? Being part of such a close-knit community on campus and always seeing a friendly face.
Favorite Quote: “Winning isn’t everything, but making the effort to win is.” - Vince Lombardi

Name: Brittany Bullock
Academic Standing: Senior
Major(s): Learning Disabilities K-12
Minor(s): English & Reading
Hometown: Lansing, Mich.
E-mail address: bmb003@aquinas.edu
AQ clubs /organizations/sports: ASCD (The Association of Supervision & Curriculum Development), AQ Pella, Intramural Basketball & Volleyball 
Something fun/interesting/unique about you: Singing and meeting new people are two of my favorite things.
Most unique experience at AQ? The fantastic semester I spent living abroad in the breathtakingly beautiful countryside of Ireland.
Why did you want to be an AQ Ambassador? I love being involved, talking to and meeting new people, and helping others. Being an Aquinas Student Ambassador allows me to do all of these things, and much more!
What is your favorite thing about AQ? The closeness of the faculty, staff and students that allows you to become a member of the Aquinas College family.
Favorite Quote: “Live each season as it passes; breathe the air, drink the drink, taste the fruit, and resign yourself to the influences of each.” - Henry David Thoreau

Name: Alana Casullo
Academic Standing: Sophomore
Major(s): Biology
Hometown: Malden, Mass.
E-mail address: acc003@aquinas.edu
AQ clubs /organizations/sports:  Across State Lines, Bravo!, Living Learning Center (LLC) Member
Something fun/interesting/unique about you: I can name all the Presidents in order, my most prized possession is my Julie Andrews autograph, and the guardian of my bed is a stuffed giraffe named Giraffey.
Most unique experience at AQ? I snuck out of the St. Joe’s haunted hall by pushing aside a table that was propped up to make sure students wouldn’t use that exit. Needless to say, I scare very easily.
Why did you want to be an AQ Ambassador? I want to be that deciding factor when people come for a tour, convincing them to come to Aquinas.
What is your favorite thing about AQ? Not being able to walk from my dorm to my class without seeing at least 5 people I know.
Favorite Quote: “You only say never because no one ever has.” - The Princess Bride

Name: Alana Curtin
Academic Standing: Junior
Major(s): POHI (Physical and/or Other Health Impairments)
Hometown: Lansing, Mich.
E-mail address: arc004@aquinas.edu
AQ clubs /organizations/sports:  Intramural Basketball and Student worker at O.L.L.I.
Something fun/interesting/unique about you: Halloween is my favorite holiday! I love public television. Sporks are one of the best inventions ever!
Most unique experience at AQ? My most unique experience at AQ is being able to be a part of the POHI program. It is so unique to AQ, and only one of four schools in the nation that offers this major.
Why did you want to be an AQ Ambassador? I wanted to represent AQ and show off all we have to offer! The campus is beautiful and deserves to be shown off!
What is your favorite thing about AQ? The small class size. I also love being able to contact/talk with the professors whenever I need help or have questions.
Favorite Quote: “Are you serious Clark?” - Cousin Eddie (Griswold Christmas Vacation)

Name: John DeAngelis

Academic Standing: Senior

Major(s): Sustainable Business

Minor(s): Communication

Hometown: Fairfield, IA

E-mail address: jd004@aquinas.edu

AQ clubs /organizations/sports:  President of Across State Lines, President of Students Striving for Sustainability, Co-founder of Zero Waste Initiative, and varsity golf.

Something fun/interesting/unique about you: I am a diehard Iowa Hawkeyes, New York Yankees, and New York Giants fan.

Most unique experience at AQ? There are too many to count. One notable one was presenting a Zero Waste Initiative to the President of Aquinas and his cabinet. That unique experience is something that embodies the open culture here at AQ.

Why did you want to be an AQ Ambassador? To open prospective students’ up to the possibility of a fantastic college career at Aquinas.

What is your favorite thing about AQ? The close-knit community on an amazing campus filled with trees, while having the resources of a big city at my fingertips.

Favorite Quote: "Whatever the mind of man can conceive, it can achieve" W. Clement Stone

Name: Molly Feldman

Academic Standing: Super Senior

Major(s): Spanish Education

Minor(s): Chemistry

Hometown: Grand Rapids, MI

E-mail address: mmf001@aquinas.edu

AQ clubs /organizations/sports:  ACS, Spanish Club, Peer to Peer Tutoring

Something fun/interesting/unique about you: My elbows can tell me when it is going to rain.

Most unique experience at AQ?  Having the opportunity to study abroad in Salamanca, Spain.

Why did you want to be an AQ Ambassador?  To share my passion about AQ with individuals who may be interested in our fabulous school.  It is so fun and rewarding to be able to share AQ and all the magic it brings with others!

What is your favorite thing about AQ?  The professors because they take the time to get to know you as a student, help prepare you for when you graduate, and are there with you every step of the way.

Favorite Quote:  Our fingerprints don’t fade from the lives we touch.

Name: Alyssa Frese
Academic Standing: Sophomore
Major(s): Community Leadership & Communication
Minor(s): Journalism
Hometown: Norway, Iowa
E-mail address: amf007@aquinas.edu
AQ clubs /organizations/sports: Resident Assistant, The Saints Sports Editor, Communication Club (President), Across State Lines, Intramural Soccer & Volleyball, and Service Learning. 
Something fun/interesting/unique about you: I never wore the same pair of shoes to high school twice. I have an obsession.
Most unique experience at AQ? Traveling to New Orleans on a Service Learning Trip. The people and community were so welcoming and the kids we worked with were amazing. I want to go back!
Why did you want to be an AQ Ambassador? I love, love, love Aquinas and I want prospective students to know how great AQ is!
What is your favorite thing about AQ? The squirrels! Or Iced Jolly Saints at the Moose! Yum!
Favorite Quote: “Life isn’t about waiting for the storms to pass, it’s about learning to dance in the rain.” - Anonymous

Name: Samantha Fogus

Academic Standing: Junior

Major(s): Spanish and Education

Minor(s): Math

Hometown: Midland, Michigan

E-mail address: saf002@aquinas.edu

AQ clubs /organizations/sports:  Women’s Lacrosse, Intramural Sports, Woodward Area Council, Residential Housing Association, ASCD

Something fun/interesting/unique about you: I got called Sambo once freshman year and it stuck. It was my first real nickname, everyone calls me Sambo now.

Most unique experience at AQ? Hands down being an Orientation Leader! It was some of the most fun I have ever had!

Why did you want to be an AQ Ambassador? I want others to fall in love with AQ like I did. I want to help others find the place where they are meant to be, their second home.

What is your favorite thing about AQ? It has to be the sense of community! When you are on campus there is always a face smiling back at you. We are a family.

Favorite Quote: “Wherever you go no matter the weather, always bring your own sunshine” –Anthony J. D’Angelo

Name: Michael Gagnon
Academic Standing: Junior
Major(s): Math & International Business
Minor(s): Spanish
Hometown: Grand Haven, Mich.
E-mail address: mikenongag@gmail.com
AQ clubs /organizations/sports: Men’s Soccer Team, Math Club, SIFE, Math Tutor, and Student Ambassador.   
Something fun/interesting/unique about you: I have two different colored eyes.
Most unique experience at AQ?: Conference finals my sophomore year.
Why did you want to be an AQ Ambassador?: In order to show people why I love being at AQ.
What is your favorite thing about AQ?: The soccer field.
Favorite Quote: “Whatever you do, be the best at it.”

Name: Katherine Glossop
Academic Standing: Junior
Major(s): Communication & Theatre
Hometown: Lansing, Mich.
E-mail address: kcg001@aquinas.edu
AQ clubs /organizations/sports: Vice President of Bravo, Orientation Leader, Intramural Basketball, AQ Improv troupe.
Something fun/interesting/unique about you: I have been madly in love with Peter Pan since I was 5. I’ll never grow up.
Most unique experience at AQ? Jumping into Wege pond in the middle of March!!
Why did you want to be an AQ Ambassador? I love Aquinas and there is nothing I would rather do than show people why AQ is such a gem!
What is your favorite thing about AQ? The feeling of being home.
Favorite Quote: In this life, you can have your cake and eat it too, chicken.

Name: Sydne Harris
Academic Standing: Junior
Major(s): Community Leadership and Spanish
Minor(s): Writing
Hometown: Higgins Lake, Mich.
E-mail address: sth002@aquinas.edu
AQ clubs /organizations/sports: Spanish Club and AmeriCorps/ AQ Fellows Alum. 
Something fun/interesting/unique about you: I love to be outside as much as possible! I love to hike, camp, kayak, paddle board and ski. Nature is my place of peace and reminds me that we have much to thank God for.
Most unique experience at AQ? My most unique experience at AQ was my semester in Spain. It was an experience I was truly blessed to be able to have. It opened my mind to new cultures and allowed me to discover a lot about myself.
Why did you want to be an AQ Ambassador? I want to be an AQ Ambassador so I can introduce prospective students to the community that I am so proud to be a part of.
What is your favorite thing about AQ? My favorite part of Aquinas is the amount of programs and activities we have on campus. There is always something fun happening around campus that allows you to spend time amongst our close-knit community.
Favorite Quote: “There are far better things ahead than any we leave behind.” - C.S. Lewis

Name: Kristin Heinrich
Academic Standing: Senior
Major(s): Business Administration / Communication Dual Major
Minor(s): Industrial/ Organizational Psychology
Hometown: Ludington, Mich.
E-mail address: klh005@aquinas.edu
AQ clubs /organizations/sports: Orientation Leader
Something fun/interesting/unique about you: I spent six months interning in Walt Disney World through the Disney College Program.
Most unique experience at AQ? My three years as an Orientation Leader were so much fun!
Why did you want to be an AQ Ambassador? I love Aquinas and I wanted to be able to share my experiences with prospective students and their families.
What is your favorite thing about AQ? The community of Aquinas is amazing. The students, faculty and staff are all kind and generous with their time. I couldn’t imagine going to any other school.
Favorite Quote: “All our dreams can come true, if we have the courage to pursue them.” - Walt Disney

Name: Katie Hinkle
Academic Standing: Junior
Major(s): Computer Information Systems and Math
Minor(s): Chemistry
Hometown: Pinckney, Mich.
E-mail address: keh003@aquinas.edu
AQ clubs /organizations/sports: Tech Club and Catholic Life Club. 
Something fun/interesting/unique about you: I love to run and cook. I ran a half marathon this past summer.
Most unique experience at AQ? Accidently getting locked in the Saint Joe’s basement during a run.
Why did you want to be an AQ Ambassador? To spread the joy of being an AQ Saint.
What is your favorite thing about AQ? Everything! But I especially love the community aspect, dynamics with professors, and atmosphere.
Favorite Quote: “Hakunamatata!” - The Lion King

Name: Jon Hornak
Academic Standing: Junior
Major(s): Biology
Minor(s): Communication
Hometown: Muskegon, Mich.
E-mail address: jmh003@aquinas.edu
AQ clubs /organizations/sports: Men’s Basketball –Team Captain, Student Director for Intramural Sports, President of SAAB (Student Athlete Advisory Board). 

Something fun/interesting/unique about you: I took dance classes and competed as a kid and I am a twin.
Most unique experience at AQ? I had the opportunity to participate in and start off the AQ Flash Mob in Wege Cafeteria!
Why did you want to be an AQ Ambassador? To show people why I love AQ and hopefully inspire them to want to come here. Also to represent the college in any way I can.
What is your favorite thing about AQ? The genuine closeness on campus, I feel like I can have a unique connection and some sort of friendship with everyone at AQ.

Name: Catherine Jandernoa
Academic Standing: Senior
Major(s): Music
Minor(s): Psychology
Hometown: Portland, Mich.
E-mail address: ccj001@aquinas.edu
AQ clubs /organizations/sports: Abandon: Praise and Worship, AQpella, Student Senate. 

Something fun/interesting/unique about you: I have a goal to spend an entire summer without ever wearing shoes.
Most unique experience at AQ? Getting everyone in my class (including the Professor) to go to the mailroom to pick up a package.
Why did you want to be an AQ Ambassador? So I could make a weird video and turn it in as an application!
What is your favorite thing about AQ? Jumping in Wege pond and the leaves. I LOVE fall at AQ!
Favorite Quote: “In the world you will have trouble, but take courage, I have conquered the world.” - John 16:33

Name: Stephanie Krajnik

Academic Standing: Super Senior

Major(s): Sustainable Business and Biology

Hometown: Galesburg, MI

E-mail address: sak001@aquinas.edu

AQ clubs /organizations/sports:  Insignis, S3, ResLife Resident Assistant, Habitat for Humanity

Something fun/interesting/unique about you: One of my life goals is to visit all 50 states, and so far I’m over halfway there!

Most unique experience at AQ? I have been able to participate in so many different things, from club trips to Washington, DC to service learning trips abroad, to being taught science through discussions instead of simply being thrown facts and theorems. Aquinas is a great place to explore new ideas, beliefs, and cultures, and allows everyone to develop their interests and find new ones.

Why did you want to be an AQ Ambassador? I love being at Aquinas, and I wanted to show others how awesome it is to go to school and live here! I really enjoyed my tour when I came to visit campus, and would like to continue extending the hospitality I was shown.

What is your favorite thing about AQ? The campus is so beautiful, and no matter where I’m going, I always run into someone I know. It’s nice to have that connection and proximity with your peers and mentors, and makes campus really feel like a close community.

Name: Emily Langlois

Academic Standing: Senior

Major(s): Business Administration with a concentration in Human Resources

Hometown: Muskegon, MI

E-mail address: eal002@aquinas.edu

AQ clubs /organizations/sports:  ResLife

Something fun/interesting/unique about you: I’m obsessed with coffee, the color pink and watching movies.

Most unique experience at AQ? My freshman year at AQ I won 3 pounds of animal crackers in a cute bear shaped container at The Wege Cafeteria!  I now use that container as my piggy bank!

Why did you want to be an AQ Ambassador? I truly love this school and I wanted the opportunity to show prospective students all of the amazing things Aquinas has to offer.

What is your favorite thing about AQ? My favorite thing about AQ is the community that is built here. 

Favorite Quote: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.” –Proverbs 3:5

Name: Jessica LeMire
Academic Standing : Senior
Major: Psychology
Hometown: Grand Rapids, Mich.
E-mail address: jjl001@aquinas.edu
AQ clubs /organizations/sports: Intramural Volleyball, Career Services Student Assistant
Something fun/interesting/unique about you:  I am a pickleball fanatic!  Pickleball is a racquet sport which combines elements of badminton, tennis, and table tennis.  Traditionally, it has been popular in retirement communities. I know what you’re thinking; no, we don’t play with pickles! 
Most unique experience at AQ? On the eve of one of the first snow storms during my freshmen year, a bunch of my friends and I darted to the athletic field. Little did we know that our innocent snow angel fun would evolve into a spontaneous snowball war with the thirty other random people on field.
Why did you want to be an AQ Ambassador? College is about stepping out of your comfort zone and discovering who you are as an individual. I thought that becoming an ambassador would be the perfect way for me to embrace this idea.
What is your favorite thing about AQ? Because Aquinas is a liberal arts college, it requires each student to take a variety of general education classes. For me, the assortment of classes has broadened my horizon by allowing me to delve into fields that I may not have had the chance to explore otherwise.
Favorite Quote: "Strength doesn’t come from what you do; it comes from overcoming the things you once thought you couldn't.” 

Name: Ian MacNeil
Academic Standing: Junior
Major(s): Mathematics and Political Science
Hometown: Kentwood, Mich.
E-mail address: idm001@aquinas.edu
AQ clubs /organizations/sports: POLIS (Political Studies Club) President, Math Club, Resident Assistant, Intramural Soccer & Volleyball, and “In Case of Emergency” Improv. 
Something fun/interesting/unique about you: I want to be a professional beach volleyball player.
Most unique experience at AQ? Performing with Second City Improv at Wake Up People 2012.
Why did you want to be an AQ Ambassador? I wanted to be an ambassador because I have taken full advantage of the opportunities Aquinas offers, and I want to encourage others to do the same.
What is your favorite thing about AQ? My favorite thing about AQ is our willingness to improve and strive for excellence in academics, student affairs, and creating well-rounded individuals.
Favorite Quote: “Laughter is a vacation from the everyday.” - Anonymous

Name: Kelsey Moellmann
Academic Standing: Junior
Major(s): Biology
Minor(s): Psychology
Hometown: Brighton, Mich.
E-mail address: klm005@aquinas.edu
AQ clubs /organizations/sports: Resident Assistant in Hruby Hall. 
Something fun/interesting/unique about you: I worked at a roller skating rink for about 3 and half years so one of my favorite things to do is roller skate! 
Most unique experience at AQ? Participating in Freshman Orientation as a role model was one of the best experiences I have had at AQ. The opportunity to meet people and make an impact was priceless.
Why did you want to be an AQ Ambassador? I really wanted an opportunity to possibly help prospective students in their journey in choosing a college. I wanted those students to see the campus that clicked with me, hopefully getting some to feel the same.
What is your favorite thing about AQ? My favorite thing about AQ is the campus. Everything about it, like the scenery, social aspects, and history really drew me into coming here.
Favorite Quote: “Don’t worry, be happy!”

Name: Bettina Mulligan

Academic Standing: Junior

Major(s): German, Business Administration and Communication

Hometown: Davisburg, MI

E-mail address: bmm003@aquinas.edu

AQ clubs /organizations/sports:  President of German Club, Eucharistic Minister

Something fun/interesting/unique about you: My favorite stress reliever is to clean. I absolutely love cleaning my bathroom, room and kitchen whenever I am stressed and feel so much better when I am done!

Most unique experience at AQ? I was able to attend the Golden Saints Alumni Brunch Sophomore year and it was so great meeting people that went to Aquinas way back in the day and to hear about their experiences while they attended school here.

Why did you want to be an AQ Ambassador? I wanted to be an Ambassador because I really love Aquinas and I wanted to share all of the wonderful qualities that I love about AQ with other students.

What is your favorite thing about AQ? I really like the size of AQ. I was looking for a smaller college when I was doing my college search and I am so happy I picked Aquinas. I love the relationship you can have with your teacher and the great community between all of the students!

Favorite Quote: It’s actually in German. “Man trifft sich zweimal im Leben." It means you meet everyone in life twice. When I was studying abroad in Germany and I was about to leave at the end of the semester one of my friends said this to me when we said goodbye. I just think it is wonderful.

Name: Taylor Nefcy
Academic Standing: Sophomore
Major(s): Business and Communications with a Marketing concentration
Minor(s): Theatre
Hometown: Ogden, Utah
E-mail address: tjn003@aquinas.edu
AQ clubs /organizations/sports: BRAVO!, Orientation Leader   
Something fun/interesting/unique about you: I like to incorporate Kristen Wiig impressions into daily conversation.
Most unique experience at AQ? Sister Ann showing me my father's grade in math when she was his teacher to make me feel better about my current grade in math.
Why did you want to be an AQ Ambassador? I love AQ and I love showing people how great it is! It's my home away from home.
What is your favorite thing about AQ? The trees and Wege!
Favorite Quote: “Faith is believing in one of two things: that you will be given something solid to stand on or that you will be taught how to fly.”

Name:  Molly Pelak
Academic Standing: Junior
Major(s): Elementary Education and Mathematics
Hometown: Mattawan, Mich.
E-mail address: mrp002@aquinas.edu
AQ clubs /organizations/sports:
AQ Education Club
South Manitou Retreat Leader
Habitat for Humanity
 Christian Appalachia Retreat in Kentucky
Something fun/interesting/unique about you: I have 10 younger siblings.
Most unique experience at AQ?
Being an orientation leader was such a great experience. I loved my orientation group. It was so great to meet all of the incoming freshmen and become closer to my fellow Aquinas students and staff.
Why did you want to be an AQ Ambassador?
I love working with people and sharing all of the wonderful things about Aquinas with others.
What is your favorite thing about AQ?
I love the small community feeling. I also love how when I walk to class, I will know a majority of the people that I walk by.
Favorite Quote: La Vita E Bella (Life is Beautiful)

Name: Brendan Penny
Academic Standing: Sophomore
Major(s): Business/ Sport Management
Minor(s): Communication
Hometown: Kentwood, Mich.
E-mail address: bjp003@aquinas.edu
AQ clubs /organizations/sports: Baseball
Something fun/interesting/unique about you: I have a brother on campus and we play baseball for Aquinas.
Most unique experience at AQ? Playing intramural basketball with people on the second floors of St. Joe’s every Sunday in the winter.
Why did you want to be an AQ Ambassador? I wanted to be an ambassador to show people the AQ campus from my perspective (student). Also to meet people that I have never met before to create new experiences and adventures.
What is your favorite thing about AQ? My favorite thing about AQ is the campus and the atmosphere. I love the trees and the people around the campus.
Favorite Quote: “Don’t give up, don’t ever give up.” - Jim Valvano

Name: Sydnee Rogers
Academic Standing: Junior
Major(s): Political Science
Minor(s): Spanish
Hometown: White Lake, Mich.
E-mail address: smr002@aquinas.edu
AQ clubs /organizations/sports:  CAVA, AQ Service Scholars, and volunteering at Feeding America.
Something fun/interesting/unique about you: I have the same birthday as my dad. We were both born on June 27th.
Most unique experience at AQ? I lived in Regina Hall for two years and this past year I went to Regina prom. It was more fun than high school prom!
Why did you want to be an AQ Ambassador? I love Aquinas and I want to share my experiences with others.
What is your favorite thing about AQ? My favorite things about AQ are the small classes, the people and the city of Grand Rapids.
Favorite Quote: “Whatever you are, be a good one.”

Name: Nick Rudofski
Academic Standing: Sophomore
Major(s): Sustainable Business
Hometown: Commerce, Mich.
E-mail address: nlr001@aquinas.edu
AQ clubs /organizations/sports: Saints for Life, Logic LLC, Students Striving for Sustainability, and CAVA.
Something fun/interesting/unique about you: I discovered that I am directly related to Pocahontas.
Most unique experience at AQ? Being an Orientation Leader was an experience I’ll never forget.
Why did you want to be an AQ Ambassador? I had such a wonderful tour guide for my visit, which helped me fall in love with Aquinas and spread it!
What is your favorite thing about AQ? The out-of-this-world community that is developed between the students, staff and faculty that will last a lifetime.
Favorite Quote: “Where you invest your love, you invest your life.”

Name: Becca Ryan
Academic Standing: Junior
Major(s): Community Leadership
Minor(s): Writing
Hometown: Rockford, Mich.
E-mail address: rer001@aquinas.edu
AQ clubs /organizations/sports:  AQ Intramural Basketball & Soccer, Campus Ministry events and Campus Life events (awesome!)
Something fun/interesting/unique about you: My dad and I are avid cyclists; we rode a 105-mile tour last summer!
Most unique experience at AQ? Being a Resident Assistant in Regina Hall my sophomore year.
Why did you want to be an AQ Ambassador? I want students to love AQ as much as I do- before they even come here!
What is your favorite thing about AQ? The NATURE! (and the incredible professors!)
Favorite Quote: “Spread love wherever you go. Let no one come to you without leaving happier.” - Mother Teresa

Name: Bridget Salisz
Academic Standing: Junior
Major(s): Spanish and Education
Hometown: Muskegon, Mich.
E-mail address: bs001@aquinas.edu
AQ clubs /organizations/sports: Spanish Club, Education Club, Abandon, Dominican Republic Service-Learning, and Study abroad in Costa Rica. 
Something fun/interesting/unique about you: I LOVE music, but I also really enjoy painting, snowboarding, the beach with friends and TRAVEL!
Most unique experience at AQ? I spoke at a large event in the Sturrus Sports and Fitness Center for the NPR, “This I Believe” series, when the editor, Dan Gediman came to AQ.

Why did you want to be an AQ Ambassador? To help prospective students figure out if AQ is the right place for them.
What is your favorite thing about AQ? The PEOPLE!
Favorite Quote: “The Holy Spirit will teach me in that moment what I should say.” - Luke 12:12

Name: Abby Samotis

Academic Standing: Junior

Major(s): Sustainable Business

Hometown: Oscoda, MI

E-mail address: ans002@aquinas.edu

AQ clubs /organizations/sports: Intramural Volleyball

Something fun/interesting/unique about you: I love to be outdoors! I love catching frogs and butterflies!

Why did you want to be an AQ Ambassador? I want to share my experiences at AQ with others, and help them connect with AQ. If I can influence students to find the right college for them, which is such a life changing experience, then I will be happy!

What is your favorite thing about AQ? Everybody knows everybody!

Favorite Quote: Let it be!

Name: Jamie Sansone
Academic Standing: Sophomore
Major(s): Sustainable Business
Hometown: New Lenox, Ill.
E-mail address: jamie.sansone@aquinas.edu
AQ clubs /organizations/sports: Students Striving for Sustainability (S3), Cross Country and Track.
Something fun/interesting/unique about you: I started running cross country and track in college and have had the best experience with my coach and teammates!
Most unique experience at AQ? My most unique experience at AQ was really my whole freshman year as a cross country and track runner. I walked on the team and it changed my life. We won the Cross Country Conference last fall and I trust my team and know we can hold this tradition.
Why did you want to be an AQ Ambassador? Freshman year my room was the showroom so I frequently had prospective students walking through. I always got excited when a tour came through, telling high school students about my room and AQ experience seemed to make them excited and I wanted to be able to do that more as an ambassador.
What is your favorite thing about AQ? My favorite things about AQ would be the way that students and faculty interact with each other to include anyone and everyone into all activities. AQ always encourages students to experience and try new things, even if it’s out of your comfort zone. Almost everyone come out with a positive outlook on the experiences. Also, the interaction with the Grand Rapids community as a whole.
Favorite Quote: "Order is a lovely thing; On disarray it lays its wing, Teaching simplicity to sing." - Anna Branch

Name: Shelby Sidor
Academic Standing: Senior
Majors: Spanish; Bio & Psych minors
Hometown: Bear Lake, Mich.
E-mail address: sls003@aquinas.edu
AQ clubs /organizations/sports: Social Action Committee, Community Action Volunteers of Aquinas, and Student Senate
Something fun/interesting/unique about you: I came from a small town “up north,” so I love to do outdoor activities. Whenever I can, I try to go kayaking, mountain biking, wakeboarding, running, pier jumping, tubing, and on hikes.
Most unique experience at AQ? Last year I did study abroad in Costa Rica - AMAZING! I wish every student could do it!
Why did you want to be an AQ Ambassador? I want to share my personal experiences at Aquinas with prospective students, so that I can help them with their college search.
What is your favorite thing about AQ? I love how much everyone cares, even the professors. And Improv!
Favorite Quote: "Who you are isn’t determined by what happens to you, but how you react to what happens."

Name: Alisa Skluzacek
Academic Standing: Junior
Major(s): Elementary Education & Learning Disabilities
Minor(s): Math
Hometown: St. Charles, Ill.
E-mail address: ams011@aquinas.edu
AQ clubs /organizations/sports: Women’s Lacrosse, Resident Assistant, CAVA, and Education Club.
Something fun/interesting/unique about you: I had braces for 6 years and broke both my feet.
Most unique experience at AQ? Playing mud tug in Wege pond.
Why did you want to be an AQ Ambassador? To show perspective students how much Aquinas has changed my life.
What is your favorite thing about AQ? EVERYTHING!! Probably the smallness.
Favorite Quote: “Don’t worry, be happy.”

Name: Chris Skurka

Academic Standing: Senior

Major(s): Spanish, communication

Minor(s): Japanese    

Hometown: Highland, IN

E-mail address: chris.skurka@aquinas.edu

AQ clubs /organizations/sports:  In Case of Emergency improv troupe, BRAVO!, Across State Lines, intramural volleyball

Something fun/interesting/unique about you: I am obsessed with Meryl Streep.

Most unique experience at AQ?:  Ghost walks around Holmdene. ‘Nuff said.

Why did you want to be an AQ Ambassador?:  To share my love of the campus, the people, everything Aquinas.

What is your favorite thing about AQ?:  The scenery.  You can’t get this many trees anywhere else.

Favorite Quote: “A sense of humor is part of the art of leadership, of getting along with people, of getting things done.” –Dwight D. Eisenhower

Name: Nolan Smith
Academic Standing: Senior
Major(s): Learning Disabilities & Social Studies
Minor(s): History
Hometown: Hopkins, Mich.
E-mail address: nolan.smith@aquinas.edu
AQ clubs /organizations/sports: Hockey, ASCD, and AQ Klub Polski.
Something fun/interesting/unique about you: I love Detroit Lions football.
Most unique experience at AQ? I am one of the founding fathers for AQ Klub Polski
Why did you want to be an AQ Ambassador? I enjoy seeing results of my work. It’s awesome to see prospective students that I’ve toured with decide to come to Aquinas.
What is your favorite thing about AQ? All the great books in the Reading Clinic.

Favorite Quote: “Men are not prisoners of fate, but only prisoners of their own minds.” - FDR

Name: Abby Stocking
Academic Standing: Junior
Major(s): Special Education
Hometown: DeTour Village, Mich.
E-mail address: ass002@aquinas.edu
AQ clubs /organizations/sports: CYBIAC and Abandon.
Most unique experience at AQ? Having friends over for a huge family dinner the first week of school.
Why did you want to be an AQ Ambassador? To give others the chance to see how amazing Aquinas is and share how it changed my life.
What is your favorite thing about AQ? How friendly everyone on Campus is and how at home I feel.
Favorite Quote: “People spend their whole lives trying to be someone else’s version of perfect. What they don’t realize is sometimes, you have to be your own.”

Name :Abby Taylor

Academic Standing: Junior

Majors: Communication

Hometown: Grand Rapids, MI

E-mail address: amt004@aquinas.edu

AQ clubs /organizations/sports: Penny Ben, Intramural Sports, Music Department/ Choir, Saint Stock

Something fun/interesting/unique about you: I have met the returning beach volleyball Olympians, Misty May and Kerri Walsh.

Most unique experience at AQ? Having the opportunity to be an orientation leader my second year and helping my group get a sense of how amazing Aquinas is.

Why did you want to be an AQ Ambassador? I want to show prospective students how much I love going to school at Aquinas and the many fun and cute opportunities there are to get involved in!

What is your favorite thing about AQ? AQ’s campus is so cozy. It definitely feels like home and you get to know people on a more individual basis because of the community environment. I also enjoy that our mascot is a St. Bernard named Nelson. It has always been my dream to have a dog mascot.

Favorite Quote: “Take time to stop and smell the flowers because it's the little things in life that are the most important.”

Name: Bailey Terebinski

Academic Standing: Junior

Major(s): Business Administration and Communication Dual

Hometown: Lapeer, MI

E-mail address: bdt001@aquinas.edu

AQ clubs /organizations/sports: I am a Resident Assistant and on the Women’s Lacrosse team.

Something fun/interesting/unique about you: I am a national champion powerlifter.

Most unique experience at AQ? When our lacrosse team made it to nationals!

Why did you want to be an AQ Ambassador? I have had such a great experience here and I want to share it with prospective students.

What is your favorite thing about AQ? Being able to walk to class and see at least 5 people you know.

Favorite Quote: “You never get a second chance to make a first impression.”

Name: Kara Turkstra
Academic Standing: Sophomore
Major(s): Accounting
Hometown: Zeeland, Mich.
E-mail address: kh001@aquinas.edu
AQ clubs /organizations/sports: I am a member of the Bowling team, a Resident Assistant of the Gatehouse, and a member of Habitat for Humanity and Saints for Life Club. 
Something fun/interesting/unique about you: I played soccer for 12 years and bowled for 4 years.
Most unique experience at AQ? Orientation. The week of Orientation was so much fun because I got my first dose of college. On day 1 I knew I chose the right school.
Why did you want to be an AQ Ambassador? I want to show students how Aquinas can benefit their education.
What is your favorite thing about AQ? My favorite thing about AQ is the community that is here.
Favorite Quote: “Do what you can, where you are, with what you have.” - Teddy Roosevelt

Name: Hannah Vanderhulst
Academic Standing: Junior
Major(s): Communication
Minor(s): Business Administration
Hometown: Zeeland, Mich.
E-mail address: hev001@aquinas.edu
AQ clubs /organizations/sports: Intramural Volleyball 
Something fun/interesting/unique about you: I work at the Moose here at AQ and dolphins are my favorite animal.
Most unique experience at AQ? Enjoying math class outside at the Art and Music Center Freshman year.
Why did you want to be an AQ Ambassador? I wanted to share all the parts I love about AQ with other people. Also to show people around campus!
What is your favorite thing about AQ? It’s small enough to regularly see people and make friendships, but has so many opportunities that a large school would.
Favorite Quote: “Your life is an occasion. Rise to it.” - from Mr. Magorium’s Wonder Emporium

Name: Amanda Vanderplow
Academic Standing: Junior
Major(s): French & Psychology
Minor(s): Biology
Hometown: Cicero, Ill.
E-mail address: amv002@aquinas.edu
AQ clubs /organizations/sports: French Club, CAVA and Kids Food Basket.
Something fun/interesting/unique about you: I am obsessed with cats.
Most unique experience at AQ? Being an orientation leader. It was an awesome experience getting to know new people and getting to meet all of the incoming freshman.
Why did you want to be an AQ Ambassador? I wanted to share the experiences I have had here at AQ and why I fell in love with this school. I also love meeting new people.
What is your favorite thing about AQ?  Attending Dr. Frayman’s classes.
Favorite Quote: “Through all the windows I only see infinity.” - Mark Z. Danielewski