On Sept. 27, the Classical Studies program put on an amazing event in Carlton Commons. Mediterranean food was not missing, and students got a chance to get together and hear from four panelists on the theme, “Why study the ancient world?”
The event was led by two moderators, both sophomore classical studies majors, who asked intriguing questions to the panelists, while the rest of the attendees listened carefully and snacked on some great food provided by Elon Dining.
The panel was composed of four students:
- Ava Crawford, a double major in classical studies and art history with a minor in Italian studies.
- Renée Driver, a double major in classical studies and anthropology.
- Chapin Epps, a double major in classical studies and history.
- Jasper Myers, a classical studies major, minoring in Asian studies and interreligious studies.
When asked about what inspired them to pursue a major in classical studies, all panelists had unique answers based on their interests, but with a common denominator, the professors. All four mentioned the fact that Kristina Meinking, associate professor of classical languages, and Tedd Wimperis, assistant professor of classical languages, played a big role in their decision.
Furthermore, the panelists had similar answers when asked about how their study of the ancient world fit into their Elon career. They talked about their opportunity to have multiple minors and/or a second major alongside classical studies which intersects their interests really well. They emphasized how they were able to mold the major based on their academic preferences and partake in undergraduate research. Along with that, a couple of the panelists shared their study abroad experience and how their interest in the ancient world grew after having the opportunity to visit some historical sites such as Pompeii and Hadrian’s Wall and realize the true influence and importance of their major.
The event was really well attended, and the vibes were really high. As one of the few non-classical studies people in the room, I have to say that the students and professors were incredibly friendly, and I am not going to lie, it made me regret not taking any courses on the ancient world. It is clear that classical studies is a big enough field that a student can always find avenues to pursue the unique questions, topics, and kinds of evidence that most excite them. The four panelists, with their unique interests and projects, were a good example of that variety and ability to “chart your own course.”
To learn more about classical studies please visit: https://www.elon.edu/u/academics/arts-and-sciences/classical-studies/