Eric Kim Sponsored by Bessemer, Ala., Lodge No. 721 University of Alabama—Birmingham
Q: What’s your favorite class? A: My favorite class is Introductory Biology 1, which is unheard of at UAB. I enjoy it because it is the most challenging class I take. I am learning a ton of new stuff, and I have to truly apply myself to understand all of the concepts.
Q: What has been your favorite part about college so far? A: My favorite part would have to be the freedom that I have to do what I want. I don’t need to seek permission to go out to eat with a group of friends at two in the morning or hang out on the green. One day, I decided to learn the basics of salsa dancing at the campus rec, which turned out to be a lot of fun. Any ordinary day can turn into a memorable adventure, and that is what makes college amazing.
Q: What has been the most challenging part of college so far? A: I think the most challenging part of college is time management. It is quite easy to get sidetracked because there are just so many things to do. Because I have joined a number of organizations, it is very difficult to schedule and attend everything. With planner in hand, I do my best to manage all of it.
Q: Are you enjoying dorm life? A: Living in such close quarters to so many freshmen is extremely refreshing, as each day presents countless opportunities to meet new people and create friendships.
Fill in the blank: Because of my Elks National Foundation scholarship… I have more time to engage in different organizations, continue volunteer work I started in high school, and explore my passions.
Autumn Pack Sponsored by Chillicothe, Ohio, Lodge No. 52 Ohio University
Q: What’s your favorite class? A: That’s such a good question! I would have to say my favorite class is statistics. I’m not good with math but I am awesome at figuring out statistical data!
Q: What has been your favorite part about college so far? A: My courses and my professors! I have awesome professors who make the classroom welcoming and an exciting place to learn. All of my professors are phenomenal people and have helped make my time at OU interesting.
Q: What has been the most challenging part about college so far? A: On an academic level: Spanish. However, I think the most challenging part of college has been more social—finding the right group of friends. But, it’s getting much easier to find the right crowd!
Q: Are you enjoying dorm life? A: I am in a single that is connected to my roommate’s room by a shared bathroom. Everyone’s busy, so sometimes my floor is quiet, but then I just call friends and go get coffee or frozen custard.
Fill in the blank: Because of my Elks National Foundation scholarship… I have been given a way out of the cycle of abuse, neglect and anguish that happened to be a part of my family. My Elks scholarship has allowed me to become someone for others to look up to. My Elks scholarship has given me a vast support group across the country. My Elks scholarship has given me freedom.
If you missed Eric and Autumn's speeches during the 2014 Elks National Convention in New Orleans, click here to view them! Then, click here to hear more from Autumn Pack on our latest episode of Midday, the Elks National Foundation’s monthly podcast.
For 2014-15, the Elks National Foundation allocated $2.44 million to fund the Most Valuable Student scholarship program, which includes 500 four-year Most Valuable Student Scholarships. For more information about the Most Valuable Student scholarship program, including eligibility and deadlines, visit www.elks.org/enf/scholars.