Sadie Penix

Motivating, Exciting, Dynamic, Collaborative, and Rewarding

The University Honors Program is for me because it provides endless opportunities for growth in my academic pursuits, career, and personal life. Having access to unique seminars, study tours, and honors experiences advances my learning in distinctive ways, applicable far beyond the classroom. Interacting with like-minded peers cultivates a supportive environment that pushes for my self-improvement and collective collaboration. This program has encouraged me to make meaningful contributions to our campus and society, ultimately becoming a global citizen scholar!

The honors experience that has had the biggest impact on me was being an Honors Welcome Event Mentor. I was able to connect with like-minded students that were passionate, caring, and extremely driven! Having the opportunity to mentor and incoming first-year Honors students at UC was incredibly rewarding and inspiring, opening my eyes to new perspectives, challenges, and outlooks.

I would tell myself to say yes to every opportunity! You never know what doors may open or chances that arise from just putting yourself out there and tackling something new. It may be daunting but the self-growth and learning opportunities are worth it.

I am most looking forward to the 2025 Fall UHP seminar "Human Displacement and Social Justice" with a study tour to Costa Rica! I am excited to have a deep-dive seminar into these incredibly important and timely topics, as I am very passionate about social justice and human rights. I look forward to meeting peers who are compassionate, considerate, and driven!