Chase Clark
Chase Clark
Major: African-American Studies and Communication
Hometown: Colfax, NC
“What surprised me most about my Wake Forest experience was how much I would grow: personally, academically, and as a leader.”
Greatest change since your first year
The most fundamental change I’ve experienced since my first year is finding my voice as a Black woman. When I first arrived, I often felt the pressure of navigating spaces where I was one of the few, or only, Black students, and I wasn’t always confident in asserting my perspective. Over time, through leadership roles, academic opportunities, and community engagement, I’ve grown into someone who speaks up with intention and confidence. I’ve learned that my voice matters, not only for my own growth but for uplifting and representing my community. This transformation has shaped how I lead, advocate, and show up for others in every space I enter.
Most meaningful non-academic experience
One of the most meaningful non-academic experiences I’ve had at Wake Forest was studying abroad in Greece and London. Being immersed in new cultures challenged me to step outside of my comfort zone, navigate unfamiliar spaces, and form new friendships while maintaining connections back home. These experiences taught me resilience, independence, and the importance of authentic relationships. Traveling to different countries and learning to adapt to diverse environments helped me grow personally in ways that went far beyond the classroom.
Songs that define your Wake Forest experience
The song that will always remind me of my time at Wake Forest is “You Got Me” by The Roots. It became my go-to song for studying and writing, almost like a hypnotic soundtrack that helped me focus. Some of my best work, papers, projects, and creative writing, was done with that song playing in the background. Every time I hear it, I’m reminded of the long nights, the dedication, and the moments of flow that defined my academic journey here.
Impact of Pro Humanitate
Pro Humanitate has been a guiding principle throughout my time at Wake Forest, shaping how I approach leadership, community, and advocacy. It has inspired me to center service and equity in everything I do: through my work with the Black Student Alliance, mentoring peers, and creating spaces for dialogue. These experiences have solidified my post-graduation plan to pursue a Ph.D. in Black Studies, where I can continue to uplift Black communities, advance scholarship, and create meaningful change. Pro Humanitate reminds me that my work should always serve humanity and guide me to use my voice and skills to make an impact beyond myself.
Most surprising aspect of your experience
What surprised me most about my Wake Forest experience was how much I would grow: personally, academically, and as a leader. Coming in as a first-year, I couldn’t have predicted the ways I would develop my voice, step into leadership, and navigate new challenges while learning from diverse perspectives. Every experience, from studying abroad in Greece and London to leading the Black Student Alliance, pushed me to grow in ways I didn’t expect. Looking back, the most surprising part was realizing just how much I could evolve when I embraced every opportunity.
Most influential person(s) in your journey
Several incredible people have shaped my Wake Forest experience, but I’d especially like to highlight Dr. Claire Crawford, Dr. Corey Walker, Leighann Brooks, and Jean Anne Semke. Each of them believed in me, pushed me to grow, supported me through challenges, and empowered me to step into my full potential. Their guidance, encouragement, and care helped me find my voice, embrace leadership, and approach my work with confidence. I’m deeply grateful for the ways they invested in me, and their influence continues to inspire me every day.
Most rewarding student experience
One of the most rewarding experiences I had at Wake Forest was winning Homecoming Queen and being able to bring back gifts for my Papa from my study abroad trips in Greece and London. Seeing him wear those gifts all the time reminds me of why I strive to make my family proud. These moments made my achievements feel deeply personal and meaningful, connecting my growth and success at Wake Forest to the people I love most. It’s a reminder that the most rewarding experiences are often those that allow me to celebrate and honor my family while pursuing my own growth.
What you’d tell your first-year self
If I could give my first-year self advice, it would be: take more photos! Amid all the studying, leadership, and growth, I sometimes forgot to capture the little moments that make college so special. Looking back, I wish I had documented more memories with friends, at events, and during everyday moments, because those snapshots tell the story of my Wake Forest journey in a way nothing else can.