Alexa Wonacott
(she/her)
k21aw02@kzoo.edu
Hometown: Traverse City, Michigan
Majors: Business and Spanish
Study Abroad: Madrid, Spain
Best Adjective to Describe You: Dedicated
In 20 words or less, what is the best thing about being part of this department?
The faculty. The professors are very supportive and go out of their way to help students succeed.
What is your biggest piece of advice to first years and sophomores about getting connected to this department?
Get involved. Going to office hours, TA help sessions, and department events are the best way to get connected to the professors and other students in the department.
What is the most valuable thing you’ve learned at K?
The importance of self-motivation. This mindset has helped me set and achieve my goals!
What has been your favorite class at K?
The Negotiation & Persuasion class. It prepared me for salary negotiations, buying/selling a car, business partnerships, and workplace conflict mediation. The real-life simulations were fun and gave me an opportunity to practice these situations.
How have you taken advantage of the open curriculum or experienced breadth in your education?
I have taken classes in almost every department. I love learning new things, so the open curriculum allowed me to explore different subjects. The range of classes also helped me narrow down my interests and decide on Business and Spanish.
What experiential education opportunities have you participated in?
I studied abroad in Madrid, Spain and have traveled with the Kalamazoo College Singers to Chicago and various cities in Michigan, performing at correctional facilities, a psychiatric hospital, elementary schools, and nursing homes. On campus, I am co-president of the Professional Women’s Club, a member of the Kalamazoo College Singers, the business director for the Limelight’s acapella group, and I work at the Admissions Office at K. All of these experiences significantly contributed to my education experience.
What is your SIP?
I am doing an experiential business SIP about my internship at a space and satellite communications company. Afterwards, I am writing a reflection on the experience and expanding the paper into a market analysis of the space industry.
What are your career aspirations/next steps after K?
After graduation, I plan to return to Spain for an English teaching program and then attend graduate school for international business or another sector of business.
What is a random fun fact about you?
I keep every card and letter that I receive!