May 2012 Student of the Month
Meet Gian Besana, student of the month.
Hometown: Winston-Salem, NC
Class: Freshman
Major: International Studies
Sample Courses:
- Intermediate Portuguese
- Latin America Since 1826
- Contemporary Moral Issues
Activities:
- International Studies Club Co-Vice President
- Model United Nations Co-President
- Alternative Spring Break to Guatemala, Spring 2012
- Barkada (Filipino Student Association) Cultural Leader
- Small Group Leader, NCSU Office of International Services
- NCSU Photo Club Secretary
- Leadership in Action Member, NCSU Center for Student Leadership, Ethics & Public Service
Honors:
- NCSU Chancellor Leadership Scholar
- Outstanding Achievement Award in Second Year Portuguese
Postgraduate Plans:
Graduate work in International Studies. Work with a governmental or non-profit organization.
What has been your favorite course so far?
My Latin American History course. It is a First Year Inquiry class, so it only had about 20 students. It was rewarding to get to know a professor on a closer basis.
How have you been so active here on campus?
I have always been a very involved student, and here at State, I truly wanted to develop my leadership skills. I enjoy being more than just a member; it is a personal challenge to accomplish more. For example, next year I will be president of the Model United Nations Club. I will organize juniors and seniors in the group, while I will only be a sophomore. My goal will be to grow the club and take it further.
What advice would you give incoming students?
Join clubs and branch out. There is such diversity on campus – take advantage of this time to discover yourself. But also be sure to keep up with your classes so you can maintain good grades.