Purity Bundi

“I’ve enjoyed learning and understanding how radiation can be used to diagnose and treat cancer. Every day after class, I acquire new knowledge about cancer, and most importantly, I’m left with more questions on how we strive to prolong life for cancer patients by developing and improving new treatment modalities through research.”

“While at Carthage, I worked as a tutor. Through this experience, I developed communication and analytical skills that have helped me succeed as a teaching assistant.”

“We had to take classes across multiple disciplines at Carthage; this honed my ability to think critically and broadened my perspective. All the physics lab students are from different disciplines — pre-med, pre-law, art, etc. — and they often lament about how irrelevant the lab is for their career path. I realized this attitude impeded their performance; hence, I encouraged them to look at the experience differently in terms of skills acquired as opposed to the knowledge gained. For example, while working in groups, they learn how to exchange different ideas to solve problems. By the end of the lab, they will have acquired teamwork, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills, which are vital in any profession. This helped them enjoy the lab and perform well. It was at that moment that I truly appreciated the liberal arts education Carthage accorded me.”

“The close proximity to Lake Michigan. As a lover of nature, I found walking by the lakeshore to classes every day fascinating! Besides, the small class sizes allowed for close, personal interaction between professors and students. As an introverted and reserved person like myself, I was convinced beyond any reasonable doubt that Carthage would provide me a conducive environment for personal growth and professional development.”

“I’m convinced my Teaching Assistantship Award was a result of my tutoring experience at Carthage. I will also soon as serve as an international orientation leader at LSU. Having served as a peer coach, first-generation student mentor, and an orientation leader at Carthage, I feel prepared for this opportunity at LSU.”

“Professor Jean Quashnock was my academic advisor. He not only contributed to my personal growth, but also to my professional development. During my sophomore year, I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do career-wise. Prof. Quashnock helped me explore my interests and decide that medical physics was my area of study. He later on helped write my recommendation letters for a summer research internship at the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania. I got accepted and participated in the internship my sophomore and junior year. He also helped me secure shadowing opportunities with a clinical medical physicist at the Cancer Treatment Center of America in Zion, Illinois. Also, he often helped me, an international student, navigate the American education system and social system.

“During my senior year, I underwent a difficult family experience that led to the loss of my dad, and Prof. Quashnock was so instrumental in my emotional and mental well-being. He pointed me to the right resources, and his words of wisdom empowered me. I am where I am today because of the immense support and impact Prof. Quashnock has had in my personal and professional life. I’ll forever be indebted to his kindness.”

“’Inspiring service’ has played a major role in my life since I’m a service-oriented person and I’m always seeking out to be involved in serving my friends, family, society, country, and world at large. As is evident in my career path as an upcoming clinical medical physicist, I’m committed to serving by providing affordable and effective cancer care. I’m also passionate about mentoring younger generations, especially girls from underrepresented, developing communities who are pursuing STEM professions.”

“My favorite memories are of the people I met and of the friendships and networks I developed! Carthage shaped me to be an all-rounded person!”

“My advice to any undergraduate student is to explore your interests, especially in a liberal arts college. You have the opportunity to try out anything, both in and out of classes, before committing to what excites your mind and brings joy to your soul. As you figure out your professional life, create time to explore leadership and extra curricular opportunities — it’ll help you develop communication skills and even some hobbies. Lastly, don’t be afraid to ask, and be cognizant of whom you’re asking. There are kind people out here, and they’re always willing to help where they can or point you to the right resources.”

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