Meet the Students of CGS: Alanna Raskin
College of General Studies: 2014 Sargent School of Health: 2016 Major: Health Sciences
What was your favorite College of General Studies class?
“I really enjoyed all of my Social Science classes. I think those classes were unique because we didn’t just memorize historical events — we discussed the intricate ways that everything connects. I never experienced a class like that before and it made the subject matter more enjoyable, interesting and relevant. I ended up learning a lot more than I would have in a regular history course.”
What do you do when you’re not in the classroom?
“I’ve been the Resident Assistant (RA) at the College of General Studies house for the past 2 years. As an RA, I’ve learned a lot about how to help other people and manage interpersonal relationships. I also work really hard to make sure that everyone feels at home. I think I’ve been pretty successful in that sense because most residents stay here for a few years. The experience has taught me so much about how to foster a community and make everyone feel welcome.”
What’s your favorite spot on campus?
“Definitely the College of General Studies house! I’ve lived here all 4 years and feel that it’s the place where I grew up. When I was a freshman, I had no idea what I was doing or who I wanted to be, but I found all of that out while living here. In fact, all my most important memories, like working on the Capstone project and figuring out how to be an RA, happened while I was in the CGS house.”
If you could give one tip to incoming freshmen, what would it be?
“Do everything that you can. College is so different from high school and you can try new things and figure out who you are. I had no idea that I wanted to pursue health sciences as a career or become an RA until I put myself in the position to experience those things. Being in a city like Boston while having all the amazing professors and resources at BU isn’t necessarily something you’ll ever have again so you need to take full advantage of it!”