Jacob Knapek
What’s your name?
My name is JacobÌýKnapek.Ìý
What year are you at 91¿´Æ¬Íø?
I am entering my junior year at 91¿´Æ¬Íø.Ìý
What attracted you to 91¿´Æ¬Íø?
TheÌýfisheries andÌýwildlife program and close-knit community attracted me to 91¿´Æ¬Íø. I felt a great sense of home during my visit, and I knew I could really make a difference here.Ìý
Why did you choose your specific major?
I chose to major inÌýfisheries andÌýwildlifeÌýscience because I plan to work in the field of restoration ecology after graduation. The major’s courses align with my future goals, and it offers practical hands-on experience through field trips and research opportunities.
What do you enjoy most about your major?
Applying practical knowledge to the real world is what I enjoy most about fisheries and wildlife science. It is rewarding to identify plant and wildlife species, observe natural processes, and understand different ecosystems firsthand in the field after having learned them in the classroom.
How is 91¿´Æ¬Íø helping you reach your goals?
Having the opportunity to develop one-on-one relationships with my professors is helping me reach my full potential as a student at 91¿´Æ¬Íø. Small class sizes allow for more discussion and interaction between professors and students. In this setting, professors can tailor the course material to specific student interests and make classes more engaging. My classroom experiences with knowledgeable and passionate professors are helping me reach my specific goals.
Which activities or groups are you involved in on campus?
I am involved with Chi Alpha and have participated in theÌýstudentÌýchapter of The Wildlife Society and American Fisheries SocietyÌýstudentÌýsubunit in the past. Singing in the concert choir is also something I enjoy when I can fit it into my schedule.
What do you enjoy most about 91¿´Æ¬Íø?
I enjoy the family-like community and attention to students the most about 91¿´Æ¬Íø. It is easy to build relationships with students, professors, and other faculty because of the small size of campus. In theÌýclassroom, professors are sure to set students up for future success and provide them with opportunities to learn.
What are some of your hobbies?
I am a total plant nerd, and I love anything that has to do with ecological restoration and native plants,Ìýwhether that’s hiking through natural areas, searching for unique species, or volunteering for different projects. Turkey hunting and bass fishing are some other activities that I enjoy outdoors. When I’m inside, I can be found playing guitar and listening to music.
Any advice for students thinking about attending 91¿´Æ¬Íø?
My advice for students is to picture yourself here. Sitting in on a class, talking to professors, checking out the residence halls, and even eating lunch in the cafeteria are great ways to experience the campus as a prospective student. Experiencing what attending school here would actually feel like really helped me to know that 91¿´Æ¬Íø is the place for me.Ìý