Student Profile: Tom McGuire
Tom McGuire came to Alma College with no intention of studying French, but one class has him hooked for life.
The history major says he was required to take two semesters of French, but Dr. Julie Arnold’s introductory French class opened up an entirely new possibility for him.
“Learning not only became fun, but a rewarding, challenge-driven activity that taught me so much more than a language,” the Lincoln senior says. “Learning was fun, but it was fun because it was a challenge.”
This challenge allowed McGuire to travel to France during fall of 2006.
Tom McGuire during his study abroad trip to France.
“During this stay, I encountered so much more than a new language and culture, but an experience that has vastly enriched my time at Alma,” he says. “Never did I imagine I’d travel out of the country during my four years at college, but Alma made it possible.”
The close interaction with faculty and the classroom environment drew McGuire to Alma.
“Here, the professors not only remember the names of the students in their classrooms or how well they perform, but also the activities we are involved in and the little details that make up each student’s daily life,” he says. “Above all, the challenges constantly presented by my professors taught me more than just material, but that hard work is an integral ingredient to success. At a larger school, I may have missed out on this important life lesson.”
In addition to his travels, McGuire is involved in varsity baseball, Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia (a music fraternity), Phi Alpha Theta (an honorary history society) and coaches soccer for the American Youth Soccer Organization.
“Alma is so much more than an academic institution,” he says “It’s an experience that prepares one for life’s journey.”
