This year has tested each and every member of the Washington University community, requiring them to persevere through circumstances they could have never imagined. Students, faculty, and staff have had to come together to reimagine the Arts & Sciences experience, adapting to ever-changing circumstances. As we approach the Thanksgiving holiday and the end of a unique and challenging semester, a few members of the Arts & Sciences community share things that make them thankful this year.
Ashley Weir, sophomore majoring in biochemistry with a minor in Latin American studies
“I’m grateful that in these unprecedented times, my classes have found ways to engage both students at home and on campus. This unity really speaks a lot to the passion and tenacity of the WashU community.”
Alyse Kuhlman, administrative coordinator in the Department of Anthropology
“I am so thankful for the resilience of the amazing undergraduate students I work with in Anthropology. I have been impressed with their perseverance the last two semesters and relieved by their steadfast participation in our department’s virtual programming. Most importantly, I am so grateful for their kindness and support as I am also living a new experience working from home and virtually schooling my two daughters. Our community is truly wonderful.”
Ebee Grellier, senior majoring in urban studies with minors in Spanish and anthropology
“I am thankful that although all my classes are online, I am still able to have engaging class discussions and continue to learn from my professors.”
Akhil Kesaraju, junior double majoring in microbiology and anthropology
“I really appreciate the extensive amount of resources provided to students attending classes virtually so their learning experience does not lose any quality. It’s truly remarkable.”
Lingchei Letty Chen, associate professor of Modern Chinese Language and Literature
“I am thankful that the enthusiasm for learning among my undergraduate students has remained as strong as ever, despite the challenge of having to attend classes online.”
