Academics Raina Workman

Sophomore 1

Academic Interests. Most of my work falls within history/religion/classics. I’m really interested in Eastern Christian History, Byzantine studies, and gender studies from a medieval context. While it’s a little too early to decide the direction of my Plan, right now I’m really considering representations of motherhood in Byzantine culture and gender representation in Byzantine Saints’ literature. Because I’m currently taking Greek and Latin, incorporating some form of translation work would be really awesome.

Favorite Marlboro Classes. Wine Dark Sea: Historiography in the Mediterranean, Introduction to Islam, and Introduction to Medieval Studies. Last semester I was able to take a class on observational astronomy, so one goal for the next coming year is to better utilize Marlboro’s cool observatory.

Favorite Place at Marlboro. My favorite place on campus, bar none, is the Library. I must have lived there my freshman year. My favorite thing to do is find one of the separate rooms and take it over with a few friends and have a study “party”. Library 101 and 102 are especially good for this. I also sometimes like to study in Dalrymple at night, if the library’s a little crowded. Don’t forget to do non-academic things though! Sometimes you just have to grab your iPod and spend some time walking on the trails. The World Studies Lounge is the best if you just want to veg and watch a movie.

Advice. One thing I recommend to all incoming freshmen: get off the hill! I didn’t do that at all my first semester, and I had a serious case of cabin fever by the time winter break came around. 

Community Involvement. Last year I was a member of the World Studies Committee, Fire and Safety Commission, and worked as an office assistant in Admissions. This coming year I’ll be Selectboard Clerk and a member of the Spiritual Life Committee, along with spearheading The Great British Television Club. I will also be reprising my work study position in Admissions.

Goals. I think the thing I’m most looking forward to this school year is visiting Istanbul in the Spring semester. One thing I definitely want to do before I graduate is spend a few summers in Turkey and learn the language. I’ve always wanted to travel, and using school breaks seems like the best way to do that.

Summer Plans. Currently, I’m working in Admissions as an office assistant over the summer. I do everything from filing and data entry, to giving prospective students tours around campus. Meeting new/incoming students is my favorite part of the job, absolutely. Getting to know you all has been so fascinating, and I really look forward to meeting all you awesome people in the fall!