Emma Nolke
April 6, 2016
By Emma Alexander, Honors Communications Intern
This week’s student spotlight is a sophomore from Carol Stream, Illinois, and her name is Emma Noelke. Emma is double majoring in African American Studies and Educational Studies, and based off of her choice of majors, I was not surprised by her future plans. Emma shared,
I have many future plans for myself and most are within the vision of making access to education in America equal regardless of class and race. I am very interested in the intersections of race, class, and education and how we can change what we are currently doing in public education to address the changing demographics of American students. I plan on continuing my education, probably through a PhD, so that I can research the best educational practices that address issues of race, diversity, and inclusion. I would love to help make classrooms accessible places for all with equal access to learning opportunities!
What an incredible vision. Emma is clearly very passionate about her studies and interests, and she is sure to make a difference in a field that impacts each and every one of our lives every day. Speaking of the classroom, I then wondered why Emma chose to pursue her goals here at Purdue.
I chose Purdue because I wanted to stay somewhat close to my hometown (2.5 hours is a good distance) and I loved the idea of attending a prestigious, Big Ten University! After receiving a scholarship and getting into the Honors College, I couldn’t say no!
Given the passion she carries for her educational route, it is unsurprising that many of Emma’s involvements outside of class are closely related to the subjects she is studying in class. She is a member of Students in Education Enhancing Diversity (SEED), and she says she is thrilled that there exists such a program concerned with the diversity needs within education. Emma is also a member of the Black Thought Collective at BCC. Through this, she is currently working with others involved to prepare for a presentation that speaks to the psychological effects of racism and slavery on Americans.
Beyond organizations, Emma is also very involved in research. She is in two courses of psychology research, one of which focusses on gender inclusiveness in the workplace and what best practices make women more successful. The second focusses on research surrounding the best diversity practices and how to teach diversity more effectively. However, despite all of these involvements, Emma went above and beyond to co-found and become president of her own group called the Students of Purdue Against Racism Coalition (SPARC). She explains that SPARC is working to educate those on campus about issues of race and privilege, and they are hosting a series of workshops to correspond with this goal. Why is she so involved? Emma explains,
I love being involved in organizations where I can learn more skills that I will need in my future career and where I can make a positive change.
Of course, beyond everything else, Emma is also involved in the Honors College, and I asked her to share some of her Honors experience with me.
I have most enjoyed the Honors classes. I love how they focus in on a specific topic but then make me think about things in a different way such as my Sports and Politics class and my class on Civil Rights History. I also love the opportunities that have come up through the Honors College whether it be a museum trip to Ohio or the great connections I’ve found with supportive faculty members who have helped shape my goals and educational experience.
Emma has certainly had a positive experience at Purdue thus far, and I would say she has likely influenced the Purdue community just as much as it has impacted her over the course of the past two years. We look forward to seeing how much more you accomplish in the time you have left in the Honors College and in the many years to follow as well. Thank you for sharing your story with us Emma!
You can check back each week for a new spotlight on another outstanding Honors student or visit our website now and peruse our previous featured scholars.
