Jacob Knapek
What’s your name?
My name is Jacob Knapek.
What year are you at VCSU?
I am entering my junior year at VCSU.
What attracted you to VCSU?
The fisheries and wildlife program and close-knit community attracted me to VCSU. I felt a great sense of home during my visit, and I knew I could really make a difference here.
Why did you choose your specific major?
I chose to major in fisheries and wildlife science because I plan to work in the field of restoration ecology after graduation. The major’s courses align with my future goals, and it offers practical hands-on experience through field trips and research opportunities.
What do you enjoy most about your major?
Applying practical knowledge to the real world is what I enjoy most about fisheries and wildlife science. It is rewarding to identify plant and wildlife species, observe natural processes, and understand different ecosystems firsthand in the field after having learned them in the classroom.
How is VCSU helping you reach your goals?
Having the opportunity to develop one-on-one relationships with my professors is helping me reach my full potential as a student at VCSU. Small class sizes allow for more discussion and interaction between professors and students. In this setting, professors can tailor the course material to specific student interests and make classes more engaging. My classroom experiences with knowledgeable and passionate professors are helping me reach my specific goals.
Which activities or groups are you involved in on campus?
I am involved with Chi Alpha and have participated in the student chapter of The Wildlife Society and American Fisheries Society student subunit in the past. Singing in the concert choir is also something I enjoy when I can fit it into my schedule.
What do you enjoy most about VCSU?
I enjoy the family-like community and attention to students the most about VCSU. It is easy to build relationships with students, professors, and other faculty because of the small size of campus. In the classroom, professors are sure to set students up for future success and provide them with opportunities to learn.
What are some of your hobbies?
I am a total plant nerd, and I love anything that has to do with ecological restoration and native plants, whether that’s hiking through natural areas, searching for unique species, or volunteering for different projects. Turkey hunting and bass fishing are some other activities that I enjoy outdoors. When I’m inside, I can be found playing guitar and listening to music.
Any advice for students thinking about attending VCSU?
My advice for students is to picture yourself here. Sitting in on a class, talking to professors, checking out the residence halls, and even eating lunch in the cafeteria are great ways to experience the campus as a prospective student. Experiencing what attending school here would actually feel like really helped me to know that VCSU is the place for me.