Paige Jelenic

Why did you choose George Mason University and your major or area of study?

When I first toured, George Mason University had such a welcoming atmosphere. It felt like I was walking around my home away from home. As for my major, I have always been intrigued in the making of criminals, external and internal forces that lead to the crimes they commit.

Are there faculty or staff members who have made a difference thus far during your George Mason career?

Professor Lisa Gring-Pemble is one of the most understanding and personable professors ever. She really cares about her students and their success. I appreciate her check-in emails and gif attachments of encouragement when parts of the semester seemed mentally taxing. Professor Kevin Fornshill is another professor I incredibly admire. His introduction to criminal justice class solidified that I picked the correct major and made every class interesting. Professor Lisa Sechrest-Ehrhardt taught one of the most eye-opening courses in the Honor's College. Her experiencing difference class made me self-reflect and become more mindful of my own actions as well as stand up against others'. I cannot recommend these professors enough-- their classes leaving incredible impacts on me.

How do you hope to use your degree and studies in the future?

I hope my degree will open more opportunities for me in the future. I also hope that the skills I am able to take away from my degree will help in my own professional development.

How will the Dean’s Challenge scholarship support your studies?

The Dean's Challenge scholarship will aid as an opportunity to further network within the university and expand my horizons towards future goals as well as help fund my studies.