Class of 2010
Alyse Bensel
Going Green and the Writing Scene
Washington College students are often involved in a broad and diverse range of activities. But as a devotee of poetry and the environment, Alyse Bensel '10 is taking it to the next level.
Hailing from York, PA (a land of universities), Alyse found what she was looking for at WC: "I immediately loved Washington College; it has very impressive English and environmental studies programs."
With a double major and plethora of interests, Alyse regularly exceeds the normal course load by taking five classes each semester. Among other things, she is a Peer Consultant at the Writing Center, a member of the Douglass Cater Society of Junior Fellows, and a singer in several musical groups, her favorite being the Afro-Cuban Ensemble. "I continue to grow, in what I learn and what I can do," she says of the music program.
Last summer, Alyse was invited to intern at the College's Center for Environment & Society (CES). She worked as a research assistant, helping to design and give feedback on CES programs such as campus recycling and the inaugural Chesapeake Semester.
She was at the CES when Governor Martin O'Malley and the Maryland House of Representatives visited Washington College for "Capital for a Day." After holding a session on campus, the legislators toured College facilities, including the CES. There, Alyse was part of a meeting to discuss state initiatives and a possible partnership for sustainability.
Active in the Student Environmental Alliance, Alyse will serve as co-president of the awareness group in her senior year. As one of the most active clubs on campus, the SEA co-hosts activities including Earth Day, George Goes Green, Do It in the Dark bonfire, an Everglades spring break trip, the Water Filtration Project, and various camping trips. Alyse is planning even more weekend activities for the coming year, in addition to the composting, volunteering and sustainability projects.
This year, Alyse will be Senior Editor for the student magazine Collegian. She is excited for this experience because she aspires to a career in publishing (environmental writing, of course) or the nonprofit sector. And that's only after graduate school.
Alyse eagerly carries out her numerous responsibilities at Washington College. "It's a lot of work and a lot of fun. I couldn't see myself anywhere else."
Campus Event Appearances
Look for Alyse in these event photos: