Meet a Husker: Clare Frances Kennedy
Clare Frances Kennedy is a New Student Enrollment leader and a communication studies and women’s and gender studies major from Nashville, Tennessee.
What are your tips for adjusting to something new?
My biggest tip for adjusting to something new is to take everything one day at a time! It’s so easy to get overwhelmed by new stressors and experiences, but taking things day by day can help you really enjoy new experiences as they present themselves and make everything feel more manageable!
Talk about an impactful/memorable experience you’ve had as a Husker.
One of the most memorable experiences I’ve had in college is getting tapped into Mortar Board during a weekly speech and debate team meeting this past spring. It was just a really cool culmination of hard work and communities and friends that I really care about. Even though it had to be over zoom, getting to celebrate something I was excited about with some of my best friends was such a cool experience! It was a reminder of why I have worked so hard to make connections in academic communities, recognized student organizations, Greek Life, and more!
What is your favorite thing about Lincoln?
My favorite thing about Lincoln is how quickly it can feel like home. When I moved here I didn’t know a single soul and now I can’t walk 5 minutes without seeing a friendly face. People here are excited to make new connections!
Where is your favorite place to study/relax/meet up with others?
One of my favorite places to meet up with folks on campus is the Sculpture Garden behind the Sheldon art museum. It’s such a beautiful corner of campus and I’ve made some of my best memories there.
What is something a Husker should make sure to try while they’re a student?
Every Husker should go explore East Campus, even if you primarily do your work on City Campus. It’s such a beautiful space with amazing resources. When I took a class on East Campus my sophomore year, I was exposed to buildings and outdoor spaces I hadn’t realized I could use!
Is there a particular experience on-campus that taught you a lot?
One on-campus experience that has taught me a lot has been joining the Communication Studies Undergraduate Student Advisory Board. I knew that I loved my major, but getting involved outside of the classroom taught me the power of connecting with faculty members and taking ownership of what I want to study in all aspects of my college life!
Name a person who has helped you be successful at Nebraska.
Dr. Allison Bonander has been so impactful in my success at UNL! Her guidance as a speech coach and mentor has empowered me to learn the value of my voice, and put myself out there for opportunities and experiences.
Best advice to a new college student:
It’s okay if you are scared to put yourself out there, even just reaching out to make one new friend can have a huge impact on your college career!
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