Student Snapshot: Erin Kennaly ’22
Growing up in Carlisle, and hearing about her brother's positive experiences as a member of Dickinson's class of 2017, Erin Kennaly ’22 knew that the college was on her short list. Dickinson’s strong science program sealed the deal. Below, she discusses her hands-on summer research, what she enjoyed about studying abroad in Russia and more.
Hometown:
Carlisle, Pennsylvania.
Majors:
Clubs and organizations:
Russian Club and Equestrian Club.
Honors/scholarships/awards:
National Society of Leadership and Success, Samuel Hoover Scholarship and Dean’s List.
Favorite books:
The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky and The Help by Kathryn Stockett.
Favorite movie:
The Help.
Best thing about my major:
The best thing about my Russian major is that the department is like a family. The best thing about my biology major is the wide range of opportunities that are available.
Little-known hobby/talent:
I love growing succulents.
On choosing Dickinson:
I chose Dickinson for many reasons. I am from Carlisle, and Dickinson has always been a part of growing up here. My brother is an alumnus from Dickinson’s class of 2017, and he had a great experience at Dickinson. Dickinson also has a great science program and study-abroad opportunities, which was what I was looking for in a school.
Favorite place on campus:
Rector atrium.
Favorite Dining Hall food:
Parmesan rice.
Erin Kennaly '22 gets hands-on while conducting student-faculty research on two turtle species in Wildwood Park, Harrisburg. She's studying their egg-laying habits, and how climate change may affect these populations.
On studying abroad:
I studied abroad in Russia during summer 2019. The highlight of the experience was being able to make new friends from Russia and put into practice what I had learned about Russia.
As I kid, I wanted to be …
a florist, with my mom.
Favorite class/learning experience so far:
Researching snapping turtles and musk turtles at Wildwood Park in Harrisburg with Visiting Instructor in Biology Gene Wingert. I began last summer, and I am continuing this research in the fall. I’ve learned so much so far, not just about the turtles but also about Pennsylvania wildlife and ecology. Professor Wingert has a vast knowledge of both the plants and animals of Pennsylvania. I also had a lot of fun with the turtles.
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Published August 17, 2021