Meet our Liberal Studies graduates - Evan Clark

Individualized Major: International Relations

Minor in Political Science, Minor in Linguistics, concentrations in Latin American/Latino Studies and Russian

Triple-major with History and Spanish BAs

Graduation year: 2020

Next Steps: Fulbright English Teaching Assistant to teach English in Madrid, Spain

How did your Individualized Major through the Liberal Studies Program prepare you for your next steps after graduation?

My International Relations major has served as an ideal means to broaden my understanding of international affairs, Slavic language studies, and international law. Not only do these studies enhance my capacity to serve as a well-rounded and dynamic Fulbright Scholar, but they also enrich my potential to pursue career options in international relations, international law, or academia.

Most memorable class you took as an undergrad? Why?

My most memorable and intriguing class was definitely the "Languages of the World" course taught by Dr. Stewart in the Linguistics department. I completed this course during the spring semester of my sophomore year, which was the first semester in which the course was offered. This fascinating class appealed greatly to my interest in linguistics and provided me a broader perspective on language diversity, knowledge that will prove immensely fruitful in my internationally-oriented future endeavors. Moreover, this course offered me the opportunity to create a partial constructed language as a final project, and this activity served as one of the most intriguing final projects of my studies at UofL.

What is the most thrilling or adventurous thing you've ever done?

Although my travels to locations like Machu Picchu, Lake Titicaca, and the Sacred Valley in the Peruvian Andes served as some of my favorite travel experiences, I consider my zip lining activity in the Peruvian jungle to have been one of the most adventurous activities of my travels. I remember having felt a bit apprehensive about zip lining at first, but I approached the activity with an overall attitude of positivity and enthusiasm. Therefore, I was able to embrace the experience and transform it from an intimidating activity into a thrilling one.

Did you have any key mentors or people who deeply influenced who you are, what you believe in and what you're committed to in your work and life? Tell me about them.

My two-time Spanish professor Dr. Hutcheson has been a superb mentor during my undergraduate studies. Not only has he encouraged me to improve my Spanish continually, but he has also played a key role in helping me prepare for my scholarship applications, especially my Fulbright application. He has provided me excellent advice that guided me to pursue my senior thesis topic. His tireless dedication to helping me and other students expand their potential opportunities inspires me to show such dedication and consideration toward others.

What is your guilty pleasure?

My guilty pleasure is definitely ice cream, sometimes accompanied by brownies or pumpkin pie.

Advice for current Individualized Majors?

If you find yourself desiring a course of study for which you are deeply passionate, don't be swayed by fears that such a course of study isn't feasible. You have the capacity and the foresight to craft and complete an amazing Individualized Major, and the staff of the Liberal Studies Program will serve as excellent mentors for you as you advance through your ideal course of study. As you pursue your Individualized Major, always remember that your diverse and unique academic pursuits set you apart from your peers and offer you immense opportunities to develop yourself as a more well-rounded and empathetic person ready to tackle whatever challenges you may face.