Kelly Arvanites, Comm ’20
Hometown: South Elgin, Illinois
Previous institution: Elgin Community College
Major: Communication studies and public relations
What brought you to Marquette?
My sister originally wanted to visit Marquette and I decided to come with her. To our great surprise, I loved it and she wasn’t a fan (crazy, right?!). I instantly fell in love with Milwaukee and loved the idea of having my education fostered by Jesuit beliefs.
What was your biggest adjustment when you transferred to Marquette?
Connecting with people and finding belonging on campus. At first, it was difficult making friends because most people already had solid friend groups from their freshman year, which left me feeling isolated at times.
Thankfully, I knew my faith was a priority coming to campus and I joined InterVaristy, an inter-denominational multicultural organization on campus. Through InterVaristy, I not only found authentic community, but I also found a place for my faith to grow.
Favorite thing to do in Milwaukee?
Window shop and grab some food in the Third Ward.
Goals post-graduation?
Over the next 10 years, I would love to live in a couple different cities — within the U.S. and internationally — for a few years each.
I hope to do work that I can put my
heart behind, whether that’s a Christian organization or church, nonprofit
organization, the film industry (Pixar is the DREAM) or conservation efforts. I
don’t just want to do one thing for my whole career.
Richard Gonzini, Eng ’21
Hometown: Hickory Hills, Illinois
Previous institution: Moraine Valley Community College. Go Cyclones!
Major: Environmental engineering
From left to right: Grace Scarim, Mariah Miller, Evan Boutelle, Richard Gonzini, Ryan Klemann, Markus Howard, security guard, Sacar Anim.
What brought you to Marquette?
After graduating high school, I knew I wanted to be an industrial engineer. But my grades weren’t there and I had no idea how to effectively study.
I enrolled at Moraine Valley, got my general associate degree and an associate degree in science. I developed good study habits and talked to a few counselors about potential schools to transfer to, which is when I learned that Marquette had a good engineering program.
What keeps you at Marquette?
I definitely think having really good friendships here is a huge part of it. But also, I think the great opportunities that come from getting a Marquette degree is a factor.
What are some of your hobbies and interests?
In my free time, I enjoy road cycling and mountain biking. I am also a member of a few clubs on campus including the American Society of Civil Engineers.
Favorite thing to do in Milwaukee?
Explore. I am always trying to find new things to do in the city — there are always things to do in Milwaukee. Almost every week in the summer, there is some sort of festival going on. For transfer students coming in who are already a little older like myself, there are a ton of local breweries to check out.
Goals post-graduation?
Right now, my main goal is to pass the “Fundamentals of Engineering” exam during my senior year and then land a job in which I can work on sustainable design or green infrastructure projects.
Miles Sigh, Bus Ad ’20
Hometown: Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Previous institutions: Michigan Tech
Major: Marketing and international business
What brought you to Marquette?
First and foremost, the phenomenal academic reputation was the main factor that drew me to this university. I also like the size of the university — it’s not too big. Class sizes are smaller, which allow students to actually get to know their teachers and vice versa.
Since Milwaukee is home for me, that was also a reason in my choosing Marquette. I also grew up a big Marquette Basketball fan, so the little kid in me always wanted to go here simply to be able to experience the university’s basketball culture and the atmosphere at home games.
What keeps you at Marquette?
Everyone I’ve met at this university has been so helpful and really embodies Marquette’s Jesuit values. Bettering the community through service to others is something very important to me, especially being born and raised here.
What was your biggest adjustment when you transferred to Marquette?
When I transferred, I wasn’t a student-athlete anymore, so I had to start being more conscious of using my free time wisely since I had more of it.
Secondly, I would say that I had to make sure not to spread myself too thin. Marquette has a lot of different organizations, clubs, etc. that students can get involved in. But you don’t want commit to too many things because then something important might fall by the wayside.
What do you want the Marquette community to know about transfer students?
Embrace the transfer students because since we didn’t start out at Marquette, we all have a slightly different background than most of our classmates.
What are you hobbies and interests?
Sports, music, traveling, hanging out with friends and family, volunteer work.
Favorite thing to do in Milwaukee?
My favorite thing to do in Milwaukee is attend Bucks and Marquette basketball games. I’m also a big foodie so I love going out to eat and trying new restaurants.
Goals post-graduation?
I’d like to pursue an MBA at some point. I want to move to Chicago after graduating as well.