Meet Forrest Chrapkiewicz ’29

Forrest Chrapkiewicz '29
Major: Undecided
Hometown: Okemos, Michigan

Why did you choose to come to W&L?

I chose to come to W&L because of the small size, small classes and genuine people. I hold a lot of respect for things like the Honor System and Speaking Tradition. I think that they support a culture of connection with others.

Where is your "home" on campus?

I have found my community in the Outing Club. The people there are welcoming and have a passion for outdoor activities. Although I only make it out to the Outing Club once per week for my work-study, as well as for Outing Club trips, I feel at home when I get to go on those trips.

What has been your most impactful experience at W&L, either on or off-campus?

Appalachian Adventure! My trip leaders, Jack, Cass and Katie, made it the best backpacking trip ever. I made lots of friends and lots of laughs.

Who is your mentor on campus, and how have they helped you develop as a student?

My mentor is Professor Howard Pickett. He is passionate, compassionate and strives to inspire students. He has shown me how some teachers really care about their students' well-being and want to see them succeed.

Shoutout to my Jack McClure '26 and Gibson Ward '27 for helping me navigate my freshman year here at W&L. The transition from high school to college is quite a drastic one, and they have helped me settle in.

What was your favorite class and why?

My favorite class so far has been Food Ethics. It has taught me to think and write in a way that I never have before.

What are your hobbies/interests, and how has W&L helped you develop and pursue them?

I like playing guitar, singing, exploring and doing anything with my friends. I joined the Glee Club. Before W&L, I was never in a singing group, but it has been a wonderful experience singing with everybody. The Outing Club trips give me a chance to explore the woods with my buddies.

What has been your greatest accomplishment since arriving at W&L?

My greatest accomplishment is trying out new experiences and finding opportunities, which I guess consists of a lot of things. It includes trying out choir, volunteering at Campus Kitchen and Habitat for Humanity and having a meeting with a Career and Professional Development fellow.

Have you studied abroad during your time at W&L?

Not yet! I want to as much as possible, though. The Portuguese Camino de Santiago trip looks awesome, so I will definitely pursue that in a future Spring Term.

How have your experiences at W&L prepared you for post-graduate success?

The Career and Professional Development Office is an amazing resource that I have utilized to refine my resume and get more information about job searching. I am hoping to do summer research and be a Knight intern in coming summers!

Who or what inspires you?

My grandpa inspires me. He is a hardworking, music-loving old man who has never once lost his sense of humor.