50 Shades of Red: A look at the the ruby class of 2016

The 586 members of the ruby class of 2016 are, unsurprisingly, exceptionally diverse. Students hail from 39 states and 34 countries, with 43 percent identifying as African American, Asian, Latina, Native American, biracial or multiracial. These students speak dozens of languages, play on every sports team and have joined nearly every organization on campus. We interviewed three members of the incoming red class about their experiences, their interests and why they chose Wellesley College.

Where are you from? What has your experience at Wellesley been like so far? How does it compare to home?

Shivani Kuckreja: I am from Skillman, New Jersey. This is the first time I have been away from home for more than two weeks. One thing I didn’t realize about college was how much time is spent running errands (to CVS, etc.) to buy basic necessities. Running errands is time-consuming! 

Soo Jin So: I’m from Seoul, South Korea. It is not my first time away from home; I went to school in Louisiana and Connecticut. My hometown is more crowded—I live in a cleaner version of NYC, except with fewer tourists. I love Wellesley, but I do miss my family back home.

Sophia Sokolowski: I’m from Tampa, Florida. Although I’ve been away from home before, I’ve been getting homesick every once in a while. However, I’ve embraced Wellesley as my new home, and I love my sisters! People up north tend to be more open-minded, from what I’ve experienced, than those in the south.  It’s such a nice change!

Has anything about Wellesley surprised you since you’ve arrived as a student?

Soo Jin: Yes. Grade deflation. The determination of Wellesley students. The relationships between professors and students.

Sophia: I’ve been surprised by all the social opportunities there are here! I thought Wellesley would be strictly studious, so I’ve been surprised by things like how convenient the Peter Pan is for going into Boston.

What subjects of study interest you?

Shivani: I came to Wellesley interested in environmental studies, and Professor Turner’s course on climate change has only heightened my interest! I am also really enjoying psychology! The results of certain studies are very eye-opening!

Soo Jin: Economics definitely interests me. I want to be a lawyer when I grow up.

Sophia: I’m greatly interested in the sciences and music; I’m hoping to possibly pursue a double major in both. At the moment I’m specifically interested in neuroscience and vocal performance.

Which dorm are you living in? How do you like it?

Shivani: I am living in Freeman, which has been a fantastic experience. The people in Freeman are so welcoming and friendly. My roommate and I get along so well, and it doesn’t hurt that the rooms are so spacious! 

Soo Jin: I live in Stone-Davis. STONE D! I love the dining hall and the hotel-like rooms.

Sophia: I live in Caz!! CAZ LOVE! I really love Caz because it’s near the Lulu and the common room on the second floor is a fantastic place to study!

Are there any clubs you are thinking about joining?

Soo Jin: Yes, a lot. I have to limit myself so much! I want to join MUN [Model UN], KSA [the Korean Student Association] and the Debate Society. I wanted to join Mock Trial, but the time commitment was a little too overwhelming for me.

Sophia: Right now, I’m balancing between Blue Notes and Choir, both of which I love! I’m interested in Student Government as well.

Favorite spot on campus?

Shivani: My favorite studying spot is a study room on the first floor of the Clapp Library. My favorite spot on campus overall overlooks Lake Waban. 

Soo Jin: I haven’t found a favorite spot. So far, they are all lovable.

Sophia: That’s a hard one! I really like the common rooms in both Caz and Munger since they’re both great for studying. I also love the Lulu since it’s a great place to socialize with friends and a good central place to meet.

Why did you choose Wellesley?

Soo Jin: I wanted an environment where I could be seen as “Soo Jin,” and not just as one of three hundred kids in a class. I felt like I would improve my skills most at Wellesley.

Sophia: I chose Wellesley because of the myriad of opportunities available to its students to pursue their passions, achieve their dreams and explore various subjects, all in under four years. I fell in love with the campus, the students and teachers, and the little chipmunks! Haha.