National Science Foundation
Opening Scholars Speech, Transcript 31 Aug 1998


Christopher Altman
Center for International Studies
Pierre Laclede Honors College

 

Good afternoon. My name is Christopher Altman, and I am now a senior at Pierre Laclede Honors College. I transferred to the Honors College two years ago primarily because of the extra enrichment and opportunities that an honors education can provide. The smaller classroom size, closer interaction, and open discussion offers a deeper and more intensive learning experience than the standard university curriculum can confer.

Since I joined the Honors College, I have been exposed to several invaluable experiences which would otherwise have not been possible. I was provided the opportunity to carry out my own series of scientific research studies in conjunction with the Honors College and the Behavioral Neuroscience Group, working in close collaboration with Dr. George Taylor. This has enabled me to experience creative problem solving through the scientific process in a hands-on setting, while exploring my own research interests in preparation for graduate curricula.

I am also looking forward to a year of studies abroad beginning this fall. My involvement with the Honors College and the Center for International Studies has been instrumental in admission to an international fellowship and leadership development program awarded by the Japanese government's Association for International Education. I am extremely honored to be involved in such an opportunity, and look forward to representing the university abroad.

Without the close guidance and interaction of my professors and advisors, these and many other opportunities might have never been realized. Consider the potential benefits of an honors university experience - and the potential to make your goals a reality. I’d be happy to answer any questions you may have this afternoon.

 

Program links

Pierre Laclede Honors College,
http://www.umsl.edu/divisions/honors/honors.html

Behavioral Neuroscience Group, http://www.umsl.edu/divisions/artscience/psychology/masters_exp.html

Center for International Studies,
http://www.umsl.edu/services/cis/