Laetitiah Magara

Activities, Clubs, and Jobs on Campus: Wakilisha Afrika Club, Whitman Events Board Co-Sponsoring Chair

What has Whitman taught you outside of the classroom? 

How to have a sense of adventure both in my academics and extra-curricular activities. Lots of things were new to me when I first arrived on campus, especially outdoor recreation, but I found that there were classes that teach you how to kayak, rock-climb and even swim. These classes ensure that no one is locked out of the fun. I also learn a lot from my Friendship Family. The Friendship Family program links an incoming international freshman with a Walla Walla family.

How did you find out about Whitman?

Through Zawadi Africa Education Fund based in Nairobi, Kampala and Accra. They figured that I would be a good fit for the school and told me to apply. I also got to meet a Kenyan Whitman alumni and she sold me with her stories about her time at Whitman. She told me about her challenging classes and how she was able to establish good rapport with her professors such that she could ask for help and they would make time for her no matter how busy they were. She also spoke about her experiences as an RA of one of the interest houses and the support that the Intercultural Centre and the International Student Adviser gave to her. Her testimony helped me feel that I would succeed at Whitman.

What is your favorite place on campus?

Can I give you three places instead? I love the quiet room in the library, when it’s empty. I like the Glover Alston Centre, where students gather for meetings, potlucks, and events.  Ankeny Field on a sunny day is another well-loved favorite.

What’s the #1 most played song on your iPod?

Africain by French rap group Sexion D’Assaut.