First-year students who made their mark.

As we anticipate welcoming the Class of 2027, let’s celebrate the impact of our newest Carthaginians. Meet 14 first-year students who are definitely ready for year two.

Lorin Bucur '26 Lorin Bucur ’26

Hometown: Berwyn, Ill.
Majors: International Political Economy and Chinese
Minors: Economics and Asian Studies

List any clubs, orgs, extracurricular activities you were involved in:

Why did you choose to come to Carthage?:
“I chose to come to Carthage because of the many opportunities that it presented me. In addition to earning a very good scholarship, I knew that Carthage had a plethora of J-Term study tours. I am very adventurous and have a lot of wanderlust, so being able to study abroad every year for credit was a huge pull.”

Did you travel for J-Term? Where and what was the experience like What do you hope to do for future J-Terms?:
“I did travel for J-Term. I was able to go to Singapore! Singapore is a very interesting place. There are four official languages, including English. As a Chinese major, it was very interesting to see the enmeshment of British, Chinese, Malay, and Tamil cultures in Singapore. All of these cultures intermingle to create a uniquely Singaporean identity. Next year, I hope to go on the China and Capitalism tour, which will go to South Korea, Hong Kong, and Taiwan. If I’m lucky, I’ll start my study abroad experience in Taiwan right after the J-Term finishes! For the rest of my years at Carthage, I plan to go on as many study tours as possible!”

What advice do you have for incoming freshmen?:
“I advise incoming freshmen to get involved as soon as they can. Go to the event even if you have no one to go with. Get out of your comfort zone. Check out a club you think you won’t be interested in! You never know what people you will meet or how your interests will adapt as you grow as a person. College is a time for personal exploration.”


Grace Medici '26 Grace Medici ’26

Hometown: Zionsville, Ind. 
Major: Psychology
Minors: Studio Art and Photography

List any clubs, orgs, and extracurricular activities you were involved in:

  • Pi Theta Sorority
  • Women’s Soccer team photographer
  • Carthage Book Club

Why did you choose to come to Carthage?
“Carthage seemed like the perfect distance from home where I could be comfortably independent. When I toured campus and talked with students and staff, I immediately felt welcome and like I could truly make Carthage my home. The amazing views of Lake Michigan are also something I’m extremely appreciative of and are a total bonus!”

How did you spend your first J-Term?:
“I took Chinese and Japanese Culture Through Films with Professor Wang and had a great time with my classmates, fully immersing ourselves into the course and its material.”

What advice do you have for incoming freshmen?:
“Say yes! It’s so important to take advantage of all the opportunities Carthage has, especially at the start of the school year. There are so many ways to meet new people and connect with staff, and I’ve been grateful for the opportunities I said yes to. Also, get to know the people on your floor! Hang out in the hall lounges and just be there for each other. One last thing is to be a respectful roommate. I really lucked out with the best in the world, but we wouldn’t be where we are today without respecting each other’s boundaries and genuinely caring about getting to know one another!”


Aryanna Crenshaw '26

Aryanna Crenshaw ’26

Hometown: Racine, Wis.
Major: Psychology

List any clubs, orgs, extracurricular activities you were involved in:

  • Carthage Majorettes, founder and president
  • Black Student Union, member
  • Student worker in the Office of the President

Why was it important for you to get involved on campus right away?:
“It was imperative to get active on campus immediately because I wanted to find a community I could connect to. I wanted to find people that would be able to support and encourage me and help me find my way around campus. Walking around campus and seeing a familiar face always brightens my day.”

What accomplishment are you most proud of in your first year, and why?:
“I am most proud of starting the Carthage Majorettes. I started this club because I wanted to create a creative space safe space for people of color to express themselves. Starting the Majorettes also adds to the diversity of the campus. I appreciate everyone who has taken part in this club and is embracing the culture.”


Pedro Rosales '26

Pedro Rosales ’26

Hometown: Kenosha, Wis.
Major: Undecided
Minors: Spanish and Computer Science

List any clubs, orgs, extracurricular activities you were involved in:

  • Carthage Activities Board, membership committee head
  • Carthage Film Association, vice president
  • Mi Gente, member
  • Art Club, member
  • The National Society of Leadership and Success, member
  • Carthage Chorale, member

Why did you choose to come to Carthage?:
“Growing up in Kenosha, I’ve always admired the Carthage campus and its lake view. Carthage is a liberal arts college with an emphasis on discovering and exploring interests. I wanted that opportunity to explore what I want to do, and Carthage gives me that ability to better choose my future.”

Why was it important for you to get involved on campus right away?:
“It was important to me to explore, make connections, and find like-minded people. Socially, joining a club is one of the easiest ways to make friends. I wanted to build a community of people I can learn from, have fun, and grow with.”

What accomplishment are you most proud of in your first year, and why?:
“Being a first-generation student, college is not easy, and college life can be daunting and confusing. However, I persisted. I’ve struggled, but I found Carthage prepared with support systems in which I can receive guidance from my professors and peers. I’m proud to have built the relationships I have, to have found a nurturing community, and despite my struggles, achieved the Dean’s List.

What advice do you have for incoming freshmen?:
“Take initiative. If you want something, go for it. If you don’t know where or how to get there, make a plan, find someone to help. Don’t struggle alone. Educate yourself and find what resources are available on campus, it’s all there for a reason. Reach out!


Devon Kuhn '26 Devon Kuhn ’26

Hometown: Leesburg, Ind. 
Major: Nursing
Minor: Spanish

List any clubs, orgs, extracurricular activities you were involved in:

Why did you choose to come to Carthage?:
“I chose to come to Carthage because of the direct-admittance Nursing Program, small class sizes, and campus location. I believe in the importance of establishing meaningful connections with professors and peers, which you can only carry out in a school with small class sizes like Carthage. Other than the amazing view of Lake Michigan, the location of Carthage is one of high value. Being between two major cities can provide countless opportunities, both professional and leisure.”

Why was it important for you to get involved on campus right away?:
“It was important for me to get involved on campus right away because I knew it would allow me to meet more friends and build life-long connections. Being involved in extracurriculars also allows me to strengthen my time-management skills.”

What accomplishment are you most proud of in your first year, and why?:
“The accomplishment I am most proud of in my first year was being named conference champion in 1-meter diving. It was a reflection of the hard work I put into the sport and was one of my biggest goals this year. To be able to achieve that is a great feeling.”

What’s been the biggest surprise about your first year of college?:
“The biggest surprise about my first year of college was all of the opportunities and assistance that students receive. From career fairs to Bingo nights, I was excited to see all of the events that were available to students.”


Kara Oldham '26 Kara Oldham ’26

Hometown: Greenwood, Wis.
Major: Religion

List any clubs, orgs, extracurricular activities you were involved in:

  • Carthage United to Rescue Earth (CURE)

Why did you choose to come to Carthage?:
“I chose to come to Carthage because of its location and beauty. It’s very close to Milwaukee, and the campus is right on the shore.”

What accomplishment are you most proud of in your first year, and why?:
“My biggest accomplishment from my first year would be rushing. Going through recruitment for Greek life put me out of my comfort zone and helped me create such amazing friendships.”

Which professor helped you to succeed during your first year?:
Professor Kirkland’s style in Intellectual Foundations class has broadened my worldview and given me a different perspective on education. He is always down for a discussion and will encourage you to think outside the box, which has made me an overall better thinker and writer.”

What advice do you have for incoming freshmen?:
“My advice for incoming freshmen is to practice resiliency. Life is going to knock you down, but it only matters that you get back up. Fall down seven times, get up eight. Be confident in yourself and your ability to do hard things, and never give up!”


Alexander Vaile '26 Alexander Vaile ’26

Hometown: Racine, Wis.
Major: Accounting
Minor: German

List any clubs, orgs, extracurricular activities you were involved in:

  • Varsity Esports (Rocket League)
  • Soccer Club
  • Accounting Association

Why did you choose to come to Carthage?:
“I chose to come to Carthage because of the small class sizes, beautiful campus, close relationships with professors, and amazing alumni program.”

What accomplishment are you most proud of in your first year, and why?:
“I am most proud of achieving a 4.0 in my first semester, as it shows that the dedication I applied to school paid off in the end.”

What’s been the biggest surprise about your first year of college?:
“The biggest surprise about my first year of college was how willing everyone was to help me succeed. My impression was that it would be more difficult, and I guess I assumed everything would be harder, from academics to college life.”

What advice do you have for incoming freshmen?:
“My advice for incoming freshmen would be to get involved immediately, whether through clubs, organizations, or playing a sport. These activities allow you to meet great people, some of whom will likely be your friends for the rest of your college experience and even far beyond that.


Xingchen Liu '26 Xingchen Liu ’26

Hometown: Hefei, China
Major: Exercise and Sport Science
Minor: Public Relations

List any clubs, orgs, extracurricular activities you were involved in:

Why did you choose to come to Carthage?:
“I chose Carthage because of the beautiful campus, the small classes, and, of course, the tennis.”

Why was it important for you to get involved on campus right away?:
“Coming to Carthage as an international student, I found it necessary to fill my time with meaningful activities.”

What accomplishment are you most proud of in your first year, and why?:
“There are a couple of things that I am very proud of. First is my academics. I found the major that I am interested in and the path I want to pursue; when I first came here, I didn’t know what to do or what I wanted to study, but the advisors here helped me a lot, and I am successful in my academics because of it. Second is my tennis; I earned student-athlete of the year and all-conference, which I am most proud of.”

Which professor helped you to succeed during your first year?:
Anna Hegland and Amy Malczewski helped me a lot. Anna Hegland was my Intellectual Foundation instructor and works at The Aspire Center. When I first came here without knowing the major that I wanted, she guided me through and gave me so much advice. She suggested the major that I would like according to what we had discussed. Amy Malczewski is also a part of The Aspire Center. She is always passionate in class and patient with me; she listens to all her students and helps them with problems.


Jeremiah Fletcher '26 Jeremiah Fletcher ’26

Hometown: Chicago, Ill.
Major: Criminal Justice
Minors: Photography and Business Administration

List any clubs, orgs, and extracurricular activities you were involved in:

Why did you choose to come to Carthage?
“I chose to come to Carthage because it felt like home. I knew the school would take care of me, and I knew the football team would take care of me, too.”

Why was it important for you to get involved on campus right away?:
“I knew that coming into college, I wanted a fresh start. I was very introverted all around in high school. I’m still okay with being introverted socially, but I want to be as exposed as possible to opportunities.”

What advice do you have for incoming freshmen?:
“Get comfortable with being uncomfortable. Step outside of your shell. Take advantage of the opportunities that Carthage gives to you.”


Autumn Schroeder '26 Autumn Schroeder ’26

Hometown: Wausaukee, Wis.
Major: Neuroscience
Minors: Psychology and Spanish

List any clubs, orgs, extracurricular activities you were involved in:

  • Adventurer Anonymous, member
  • Circle K, member
  • Let’s Just Talk, member
  • The National Society of Leadership and Success, member
  • Alpha Lambda Delta Honor Society, member

Why did you choose to come to Carthage?:
“I chose Carthage for two reasons: smaller class sizes and the opportunity to study abroad. I grew up in a small, rural community; I knew I would succeed at a smaller college where I was not just a number but where professors knew who I was and cared about my education. When choosing a college, studying abroad was very important in my decision process. Luckily, Carthage ranked high on the list of small schools, with many students participating in study abroad experiences. I am excited about the J-Term study tour opportunities and look forward to either exploring Honduras for my neuroscience major or Tanzania to learn more about the culture and religion in Africa.”

Why was it important for you to get involved on campus right away?:
“Getting involved on campus immediately was important because I did not know anyone in the Carthage or Kenosha communities. Getting involved allowed me to meet new people and find a group of friends who were passionate about the same things as me.”

What accomplishment are you most proud of in your first year, and why?:
“The accomplishment I am most proud of in my first year at Carthage is being on the Dean’s List. Grades have always been important to me; I strived to get the best grades possible in high school, and this goal has continued in college. Being recognized for them has created a sense of accomplishment and has reassured me that I can get good grades at a higher education institution.”

Which professor helped you to succeed during your first year?:
Professor Daniel Miller helped me succeed in my first year of college; I came into the year undecided and was still determining which direction I wanted to go. I had some ideas about which major I wanted to pursue; however, after taking Prof. Miller’s class, I knew I wanted to major in neuroscience with a physician assistant concentration. He made each class fun, always had a story to tell us, and could turn each story into his lessons.


Joshua Fudali '26 Joseph Fudali ’26

Hometown: Park Ridge, Ill. 
Major: Computer Science
Minor: Mathematics

List any clubs, orgs, extracurricular activities you were involved in:

  • Carthage Activities Board (CAB)
  • Carthage Film Association (CFA)
  • Chinese Club
  • Firebird Broadcasting Team employee

Why did you choose to come to Carthage?:
“There are many benefits Carthage provides. Personally, the class size and location are what piqued my interest. Having a smaller class makes me feel like I stand out, and the lakeside view and proximity to my hometown make me feel at home. Carthage also offers game development courses, giving me a way to fulfill my dream career.”

What’s been the biggest surprise about your first year of college?:
My biggest surprise this year was learning how different college was from high school. For one, the class work is a big step up, even though the amount of classes is halved. Learning to juggle work and extracurriculars was a bit of a challenge, but I have found a balance in it. You also have a lot more responsibility put on you. Having to move out of your home and live with a stranger is a huge adjustment and can be a bit tough to deal with. While college definitely requires more effort, finding your way to live and even thrive on campus shows true conviction and maturity.”

What advice do you have for incoming freshmen?:
“Don’t panic about meeting people. Carthage has many opportunities to meet your peers and connect with them. Make sure not to slack off. While it is OK to put off homework for a few hours, you can lose track of what you have to do, which can lead to a lot of stress. Finally, try something new. Whether that be a job, a class you might be interested in, or anything else, having new experiences helps you grow as a person and may end up showing a new path for you to take.”


Jada Propst '26 Jada Propst ’26

Hometown: Noblesville, Ind.
Majors: Environmental Science and Management
Minors: Climatology and Meteorology

List any clubs, orgs, extracurricular activities you were involved in:

Why did you choose to come to Carthage?:
“I came to Carthage because of the community I saw and got to experience every time I visited the campus. Everyone here is extremely welcoming and supportive, and you can easily create your own community here. Additionally, everybody wants to see you succeed, and when you do, they celebrate alongside you.”

What accomplishment are you most proud of in your first year, and why?:
“I am very proud of myself for completing one year on the swim team. Being a collegiate-level athlete was simply an idea when I first started looking for colleges my junior year, and when I came here and met with Beth, the swim coach, I realized that I could be a part of the team here. Not only did I meet many new people, but I also improved so much in terms of time and skills from the beginning of the season to the end of the season — and I did so while having fun!”

Which professor helped you to succeed during your first year?:
Professor Zorn has helped me to succeed during this first year. I have him for two classes this semester, and the way in which he teaches is very encouraging and effective. He makes sure that no student feels dumb when they ask a question; in fact, he encourages any and all questions. Additionally, he is extremely enthusiastic about the topics he is teaching, which allows students to enjoy what they are learning.”

What advice do you have for incoming freshmen?:
“Put yourself out there and talk to people! Invite them to do stuff with you and see where it goes. They may just end up being a close friend of yours. Even if you have the slightest bit of interest in an activity or opportunity, look into it and check it out. Take time for yourself and be okay with taking a break from the academic workload. It can be stressful at times, which is why taking time for yourself is key to maintaining a healthy balance between school and personal enjoyment.”


James Schweitzer '26 James Jintamai Schweitzer ’26

Hometown: Des Plaines, Ill. 
Majors: Finance and Music

List any clubs, orgs, extracurricular activities you were involved in:

  • Asian Pacific American Coalition of Carthage (APACC), treasurer
  • Enactus, director of business consulting and DiversiReads project leader
  • Pi Sigma Epsilon Business Fraternity
  • Finance and Investment Club, member
  • Men’s Tennis team

Why did you choose to come to Carthage?:
“Originally, I chose Carthage because I wanted to pursue a business degree in finance while continuing my studies in classical piano and competing on the tennis team. The institution presented a format that allowed for this balance, compared to larger institutions that isolate each. I took notice of a reinvigorated business program that I was enthusiastic to join as it develops, and numerous support systems in place to help me better myself.”

Why was it important for you to get involved on campus right away?:
“I see my involvement on campus as a crucial part of my college life. Not only is it an opportunity to meet like-minded peers in aspirational social circles, but it is a chance for me to leave a good impression on the institution and make a positive difference. If there is an opportunity for me to help an organization grow and succeed, I will gladly take it. Seeing Carthage and its culture grow and evolve brings me joy, and I am thankful to be a part of an institution whose great potential becomes more of a reality every day.”

What accomplishment are you most proud of in your first year, and why?:
“I am particularly proud of the opportunity I had to join Carthage’s DEI program. It is a shining jewel in our school’s ever-growing crown, and I am grateful to explore my personal heritage as an Asian-American while being able to take an active role in the progressive development of culture and equity on our campus, thanks to exceptional faculty and peers that continually inspire me.”

What advice do you have for incoming freshmen?:
“Carthage is what you make of it. This school has unique opportunities abound, some of which are no less than incredible for a small liberal arts school. Be bold and step out of your comfort zone into the unknown, and you will be rewarded. If you are the kind of person to shoot for the moon, Carthage can be your personal rocket booster — ride it, and you’ll land among the stars.”


Line Wisely '26 Line Wisely ’26

Hometown: Hoffman Estates, Ill.
Majors: Allied Health Science and Spanish

List any clubs, orgs, extracurricular activities you were involved in:

  • Carthage Activities Board
  • Horticultural Club
  • Assistant Athletic Trainer
  • Pep Band

Why did you choose to come to Carthage?:
“I chose Carthage for so many reasons. One of the bigger things that stood out to me was that Carthage offered the 3+2 program for Master of Athletic Training and continued my Spanish education. With my Spanish education, it’s been my dream to go to Spain, and Carthage offers J-Term study abroad courses. I also liked that class sizes are smaller and my proximity to home. Being on the lake is just an extra bonus!

Why was it important for you to get involved on campus right away?:
“I didn’t know anyone coming into Carthage, so I knew from the get-go that I would need to be involved in finding new friends. Getting involved in different activities also allowed me to find friends that are in different majors than me, which allows for more friends and more chances to get involved.”

What’s been the biggest surprise about your first year of college?:
“The biggest surprise has been how much free time I have had. I enjoy taking time to eat and relax between classes.”

What advice do you have for incoming freshmen?:
“Get involved and make new friends but don’t stretch yourself too thin.”