I did the typical decadent college student thing and went backpacking around Europe for most of the summer. I haven't really travelled much so it was amazing. I spent seven weeks in Spain taking language classes and living with a Spanish family. Then I spent a week in Paris, which was lovely despite the heat, and a couple of days in Italy.

Any perspectives on the U.S. upon your return?

I appreciated it a lot more. I never realized before how pleasant it is to be familiar with things and not have everything be a cultural experience. In Europe I felt entirely defined by the way I looked and the way I spoke and it was great not to stick out so much anymore.

What did student government mean to you freshman year?

I really didn't pay much attention to it at the time, but I have a vague recollection of both the scandals and the achievements that they had. I was impressed with the progress they made in forming the new constitution and that inspired me to want to join.

Any particular goals for the AAS this year?

There are a couple of things that I'm going to be focusing on. I'm hoping to work with the College Council on an honor code for next year. The number of reported cases of cheating tripled from 2001 to 2002 and I really think that this needs to be addressed in some way. Also, I'd like to secure permanent funding for the New York Times Program and make sure that direct deposit for student employees becomes a reality.

What do you remember from freshman orientation two years ago?

I remember meeting so many people and having about a thousand mundane, but worthwhile, conversations with people whose names I wouldn't remember ten seconds later. I'd go back to my room afterwards and look through the facebook so I could remember their names and say hi to them later.

Was there anything about Amherst that surprised you?

I was expecting to be a lot more intimidated by the people and especially the classes, but everything was really managable and I felt like it was just a really warm and welcoming atmosphere.

What was the first book you read that was memorable or made an impact on you?

I don't remember the title, but it was one of my sister's Babysitters' Club books. I remember thinking that I was gaining some kind of special insight into the female mind.

You're from around Minneapolis. What's your favorite Minnesota event?

The State Fair, especially the fattest pig contest. I think it's a big pride thing for pig farmers to have really fat pigs.