campus directory

Christian Wilkens

Program of Emphasis: Environmental Studies

Hometown: Waterville, ME

High School: Erskine Academy

Why I chose to attend Juniata: At first, I was drawn to Juniata College because of the opportunity for hands-on learning such as the Ornithology, Herpetology and Mammalogy courses at the Raystown Field Station. However, when I stepped onto the campus for the accepted students event, I immediately felt at home. There was a sense of warmth and friendship and I felt like it was a good match for me.

Clubs and Organizations: Member of Rugby, Archery, Trap & Skeet, Fishing clubs.

Internship: I had the incredible opportunity to work as an intern at the Madras Crocodile Bank Trust in India where I handled 18 out of 23 crocodilian species. Currently, I am engaged in a semester-long internship at the DEW Animal Kingdom & Sanctuary where I am learning about animal husbandry.

Travels Abroad: I spent last fall studying in India. It was challenging, eye-opening and rewarding. I came back with a greater appreciation for the privileges we have in American society.

Most Interesting Class: Well, I've been in the field doing an internship this fall, so I'll have to reflect on the class I took this summer out at the Raystown Field Station. I had the most terrific time learning about Ornithology with Chuck Yohn. We got the chance to apply the classroom theory in real life and for me, doing hands-on learning is what education really means. I got so pumped up to actually handle birds for scientific purposes. Chuck is a great professor, too!

Favorite Faculty Member: Dr. Neil Pelkey has made a real difference in my life. He has gone out of his way to accommodate my learning style. Not many people understand that I need to touch it and do it so that the knowledge stays with me. Dr. Pelkey gets it. He has been instrumental in helping me create a college experience that is best for me and that pushes me toward success in the environmental field.

Thank you!

As the youngest of three children, and the third to attend a private, out-of-state college, I especially feel the financial pinch when the college tuition bill arrives. This year, my final year at Juniata College, almost never happened because the family finances have been depleted by the collective college costs. The beginning of school was two weeks away, and I still didn't know how I was going to foot the bill. Thankfully, the generosity of Juniata's Parents and Friends Scholarship made it possible for me to continue with my Juniata education. I am a living example of the saying, "every little bit helps." Thank you to every single person who contributes to the Juniata Parents and Friends Scholarship because your donation meant the difference between me having to drop out or completing my degree.

Sincerely,
Christian Wilkens
Class of 2014