Caroline Gallagher
What is the most fundamental change you’ve experienced since your time as a first-year student?
My time at Wake has really transformed my self-confidence. As a first-year student, I wasn’t always very sure of myself; however, this all changed throughout my experiences here both academically and socially. I learned the value of asking for help and simply just putting myself out there to meet new people because if there is one thing Wake teaches you, it’s that you never need to face a challenge alone. Collaborating with others, meeting incredible friends, and joining different communities of people on campus has completely changed how I view myself and my ability to succeed in whatever I’m doing.
What song or songs will always remind you of your time at Wake Forest? Why?
“College Try” by Futurebirds will forever remind me of my years at Wake Forest. Particularly my sophomore and junior years, I remember having a few friends determined to introduce me to Futurebirds’ music. They were a small but upcoming band that I had never heard of. The song that really got me hooked was “College Try,” and I have countless memories of listening to it on roadtrips, during my semester abroad, and even just hanging around in the dorms.
What non-academic experience at Wake Forest was most meaningful to you?
My most meaningful non-academic experience was definitely the three years I spent serving as a co-director of DESK. This event is held annually in the spring and involves inviting elementary school students from the Winston-Salem community to campus to paint their very own desk with Wake Forest students. As a co-director, I had the opportunity to work on the logistics of the event and watch as our months of work came together for an uplifting and impactful event each year. Perhaps the most meaningful part was working with a lot of really impressive people who became good friends throughout the years.
Wake Forest has lots of traditions, and sometimes students create their own. Do you have a favorite Wake Forest tradition?
My favorite tradition has to be Rolling the Quad. I think I love it so much because it’s so unique. It’s a tradition that is only understood by the students and faculty and although it’s simple, it’s a good community builder and way to honor the athletes who represent our school.
Who most impacted your Wake Forest experience?
Professor María Sanhueza had an incredibly special impact on my experience here at Wake Forest. As a first-year student in the height of the pandemic, I was only in one in-person class. That class was Spanish 212 in the Fall of 2020. That Fall was challenging for me personally, and Professor Sanhueza showed an interest in me as a person, not just a student. Her kindness is something I will always remember in the midst of a time when it was particularly hard to connect with the people around you. We still stay in touch and she even made me croquettes, a traditional Spanish food that I discovered during my time studying in Barcelona, for my 22nd birthday. She is a special professor and human, and Wake Forest is lucky to have her.