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Brittany Arledge, who hails from Albany, Ohio, is graduating with a bachelor’s degree in communication from the School of Communication Studies.

What are your next steps or plans for the future?
After I graduate, I'll be going to Lebanon and Palestine to do some refugee work and continue with my Arabic studies. Once I return to the States, I plan to work in sales for a period. I would like to pursue a master’s degree in the future, but I’m not sure in which field.

What memory stands out from your time at OHIO?
I remember my freshman year going to the ISU (International Student Union) dinner and meeting students from all over the world, celebrating their cultures together. I feel like these events really shaped me as a person and student. 

Why did you choose OHIO?
I chose OHIO because, as I was growing up in the area, it was exciting to see all the students going to class, I felt like I was waiting for my turn. Continuing at OHIO just felt right for my undergraduate studies.

"From my first semester until now, I've changed so much as a person and matured so much. I feel that coming to OHIO has helped me value being a student for life, always learning and always changing," Brittany Arledge said.

Who were your favorite professors and how did they make an impact on your life?
Dr. Chawla was a great professor who helped me understand people through narratives. After taking her class, I started relating to people differently – specifically how they expressed themselves through the stories they told. Dr. Harter also has been one of my favorite professors. Her passion for life is contagious, and taking her class has motivated me to apply for a research internship. Both professors have planted the seed of curiosity in me, and my interest in pursuing a master’s degree in the future.

What was the hardest hill you had to climb (not counting Jeff Hill) at OHIO? And how did you overcome challenges or obstacles in your path?
One of the hardest things for me was doubting my own abilities. If I received a good grade or positive feedback, I felt my professors had graded me lightly. I’m still overcoming this challenge, but I think just knowing that I put a lot of effort into my work has helped me be more content.

What are your favorite OHIO memories?
One of my favorite OHIO memories has been some of the late-night study sessions I’ve had with friends. We always planned to get so much done, but usually were laughing and talking more than working. 

What’s the one thing you would tell a new OHIO student not to miss?
I would tell them to explore and be willing to challenge themselves and their beliefs. From my first semester until now, I've changed so much as a person and matured so much. I feel that coming to OHIO has helped me value being a student for life, always learning and always changing.