Scots Senior Spotlight

By: Sarah Sherry
Contributing Writer

Aleksandra Forsman

What is your major?

Biology

What is your home town?

DeKalb, IL (known for Northern Illinois University and sweet corn)

Do you have any specific plans for after graduation?

I’ll be around Monmouth next semester, helping out with the orchestra and continuing in my violin pursuits. And then, I’m going to Finland for what I hope to be an extended period of time. I’m a fourth generation Finnish American, and I’ve always wanted to return “home.”

What organizations are you involved in here on campus?

Students for Environmental Awareness (SEA), The Monmouth College Chamber Orchestra, Listen Up! (a developing group on campus devoted to student activism)

Who is your favorite professor/department and why?

It’s definitely a three-way-tie for me. In the Biology Department, Dr. Cramer is the one who taught me everything I know about animal behavior, and he’s directed my interest in the career field. He was tough, but it was worth the work. My other favorites would have to be Carolyn and David Suda. I wouldn’t be the violinist or person I am today without their dedication and encouragement. They are truly an inspiring combination.

I know you’re a violinist. Do you plan to continue playing violin after college?

Oh yes, please. I’d like to continue playing in an orchestra somewhere or a small chamber ensemble. If need be, I’ll play my violin on the streets of Finland for meal money. Now that’s a starving artist.

What is your favorite MC moment(s) and why?

Aside from great memories with close friends, three things stand out:
1) walking into a class on Modernism and the Great War last spring to find a guy dressed in a Pink Bunny suit. His name was Brandon, and I think it was because he lost a bet of some sort. In any case, that is what college was meant to be,
2) Performing the Beethoven Romance in F Major, Op. 50 with the Chamber Orchestra this fall. It was the most difficult piece I have ever played. Thanks Beethoven, and
3) I’d also like to thank Mike Miller for letting me rock out on his electric violin. It was a first for me, and I really enjoyed the experience.