By: Piper Crabtree, Class of ’29, Music Education Major
Honors students continue to exceed expectations at St. Norbert College as they use their talents and skills in more than just the classroom. Students learn about the values that the Honors Programs consistently strive for and are encouraged to apply those values to their personal, academic, and professional lives. In many cases, these values enhance students’ character and empower them as they explore the workforce. Cati Cory, a sophomore double majoring in math and philosophy from Champion, is an amazing example of just that.
The summer before her freshman year, Cati received an email informing her that she had been nominated as an SNC tour guide. While hesitant at first due to her introverted personality, she accepted the position nonetheless. Now, in this position, Cati shows prospective students the beauty of campus and student life. She says, “I am so happy that I said yes to that invitation, because, despite being an introvert, I really love being a tour guide and sharing all of the things that I love about SNC!”
On tours, Cati provides potential students with information about buildings on campus, St. Norbert’s history, and many more features that make so many students call SNC home, including the Honors Program! Families on tour learn about Bergstorm, the dorm specially designated for first-year honors students, as well as the many benefits of joining. These benefits include early registration to classes, working alongside like-minded peers, and an amazing community.
Cati shares that being in the honors program truly improves her experience as a tour guide. The program’s shared values of the Norbertine tradition and the importance of liberal arts education have helped her show future students what she loves about St. Norbert. She says, “The Norbertine tradition and the faith life on campus is so beautiful, and the value of communio on campus is not just something I talk about when giving a tour, but prospective students experience the sense of community throughout the tour.” Furthermore, she talks about how being at a liberal arts institution allows her to connect with so many different kinds of students and understand a wide variety of perspectives.
Being in the Honors Program is not just a great idea for incoming freshmen, but it’s an amazing opportunity to grow throughout a student’s entire academic journey. The skills developed and refined through the Honors Program help them in all aspects of their lives, including the workforce. Through her job here on campus, Cati is not only able to welcome all future students to campus, but also support them in finding the right college for them.
