Hello, my name is Christopher Stanek. I am a biology major at Loyola University Chicago. I'm looking to join an internship early on in order to dip my feet into the field. I love to travel and can't wait for my freshman year to start.
What drew you to Loyola? What is one office, department, organization, etc. on campus (curricular and co-curricular) that makes you enthusiastic to learn more? Which organization ignited an interest for you at the resource fair?
Loyola has a lot to offer its community, but what really caught my intention was the amount of organizations and clubs. At Loyola, there is something for everyone to get involved in. For me, it was the Colleges Against Cancer (CAC) organization. Cancer has been a burden in the medical field for too long and I believe CAC is a great opportunity to help lift it. Spreading awareness and raising money for cancer research is the first step. I can't wait to devote my time and make a difference.
What makes you most excited about becoming a Rambler and beginning at Loyola/college? What makes you most nervous?
I am excited to take on the responsibilities of a college student and enjoy the freedoms that come with it. I am excited to compact my schedule with classes, community service, clubs, and organizations. In contrast, I am nervous I won't have the time to join everything Loyola has to offer. I hope to have time for them all; however, I know there are only so many hours in a day. I look forward to joining CAC, the water polo team, and many other clubs and organizations.
Provide some of your interests (academic and non-academic) and how they will lead your life where you would like to go in the future!
My interests have no limits. I love to be active and can't sit still for more than a moment without having the desire to get involved. Whether it be swimming, reading, traveling, or solving a Sudoku, I like to stay engaged at every instance. My interests keep me out of trouble and help me stay on track towards my goals.
What is one thing you would like your advisor to know about you?
I am very goal-oriented to the point where I write all of my goals down and check them off. Once I set a goal, I never give up. I've gone through physical and academic hoops all of my life; however, I don't always have the quickest and/or most efficient way. I would like my advisor to know that I am a train with a set route; however, I appreciate when others help lay down the tracks.
What does Loyola's Jesuit Catholic mission mean to you?
Loyola's Mission corresponds with my own mission statement. I am committed to strive for excellence and nothing south of it. Not only do I want to master the material, I want to apply the material to "real-world" situations. This has drove my desire to become a physician and help others with problems they may be incapable to solve alone.
Highlight one growing experience for you that occurred in the recent past.
In my opinion, motivation is one of the many important characteristics to possess. Having been apart of many teams and groups, I have learned with motivation anything is possible. During swim season, there was only one spot on the relay for a breaststroker and four guys with equal opportunities. Without motivation, I would've not had that spot and chance. Whether it be academically or non-academically related, motivation can invigorate someone to do something they might have not been able to do without it.