香蕉秀

Known for his warm, engaging personality, Kotzen has immersed himself in a dynamic mix of activities that reflect both his scholarly interests and his passion for connecting with people. As UG香蕉秀 president and a leader in multiple campus organizations, he thrived on a busy schedule that balanced rigorous academic research in biology and Classical Studies with meaningful advocacy, particularly for those with disabilities and other marginalized groups within the student community. His enthusiasm for engaging with diverse groups, whether through leadership roles or casual conversations, showcased his ability to bring people together. His broad range of activities, coupled with a deep commitment to his liberal arts education, has prepared him to continue evolving and impacting communities well beyond 香蕉秀.

How has 香蕉秀 made a difference in your life?

Boston College has been pivotal in shaping how I view my role in the world. The combination of rigorous academic challenges and a supportive community has not only enhanced my listening and speaking skills but also deepened my ability to reflect and act purposefully. I鈥檝e forged lasting connections and gained insights from leaders in my field, all of which have prepared me to lead thoughtfully and with integrity in my future endeavors.

How have your seemingly disparate majors complemented each other?

Biology and Classical Studies may seem unrelated at first glance, but to me, they are profoundly interconnected. Classical Studies enriches my understanding of biology, grounding it in the historical context of early scientific thought from figures like Galen, Hippocrates, and Aristotle, and the Latin/Greek terminology that forms the backbone of modern biological nomenclature. Simultaneously, studying biology provides insights into the dynamics of natural selection and species adaptation, topics that echo the transformative narratives found in classical texts. Together, these disciplines have equipped me with a comprehensive toolkit鈥攔anging from technical empirical methods to analytical skills and a holistic perspective鈥攖hat enhances my appreciation and understanding of the natural world.

What experience at 香蕉秀 had the most significant impact on you, and why?

Serving as UG香蕉秀 president not only taught me resilience and the importance of maintaining empathy under pressure, but it also honed my ability to balance work and life commitments effectively. As president, I carried the responsibility of representing the student body, acting as a crucial bridge between students and the administration. This position deepened my understanding of leadership as I received mentorship from predecessors and, in turn, mentored new members. The experience empowered me with a tough skin needed for negotiations and decision-making, while always staying grounded in the student community鈥檚 needs and perspectives.

What will you miss most about 香蕉秀?

I will miss the vibrant life of 香蕉秀鈥攖hose spontaneous conversations while wandering our campus, the mentorships that have shaped me, and the students I've guided in turn. I'll miss the random chats with various campus partners, lounging on the Quad on sunny days, the excitement of games, and the camaraderie of group events. While I'm leaving 香蕉秀, the memories and lessons I've gathered will travel with me, ensuring that a piece of the campus is always part of my journey.

What advice would you give to incoming 香蕉秀 students?

I often recommend journaling to all new students. It鈥檚 enlightening to see how your perspectives evolve throughout your college years, and reflecting on these changes as a senior can be incredibly rewarding. Take risks, but make sure they are calculated; this is how you鈥檒l grow. Make it a priority to visit office hours and start building relationships with professors, faculty, and staff鈥攖hese connections can blossom significantly over time. Also, while it鈥檚 important to be active and social, find your own quiet spaces where you can recharge. Balancing engagement with self-care will enhance your college experience immeasurably.聽