Student Spotlight: Arden Cornwell

Arden Cornwell | Courtesy image
Arden Cornwell | Courtesy image

Name: Arden Cornwell

Hometown: Lincoln, Nebraska

Major: Water Science (Aquatic Ecology)

Anticipated date of graduation: May 2017

Why did you decide to come to University of Nebraska-Lincoln? I decided to come to UNL because of the degree programs offered through SNR and the wide range of opportunities there were to study abroad. I was able to study in Australia in the spring of 2016 and Water Science has been a great program for me. Also, I’ve been able to live at home for free the past four years.

What is your favorite thing about the university? My favorite thing about UNL is East Campus. I like the low key atmosphere and the friendly staff. Plus the Dairy Store ice cream is bomb.

What is your favorite class and why? My favorite class right now is Ichthyology. Dr. Jamilynn Poletto really, really loves fish, and it shows. She enjoys what she’s teaching and that makes it easier for me to learn. I think fish are way cooler now than I did 3 months ago.

What are your plans following graduation? Following graduation, I’ll work through the summer at the same job I’ve had the past four years. In the fall, I hope to travel to the Philippines to visit a friend and then head over to Australia and New Zealand with two of my brothers. Upon my return to the states, I’ll either apply for grad school or go on a job hunt. I’ve really enjoyed my fisheries and wildlife minor, so that’s where I’ll start when considering graduate programs and careers. However, my plans change fairly often, and I’m always dreaming up new adventures, so who really knows where I’ll be in six months.

What is life like outside of school? Outside of school, I hang out with my family a lot. I live at home, so I can’t really avoid them (just kidding, they’re the best). I’ve been working at both Hartley Elementary and Clinton Elementary the past four years doing before- and after-school care. Working with kids doesn’t really go with my degree, but it’s something I enjoy. As far as hobbies go, I like being outside, reading, and playing Mario Kart.