Monyati Alsabbagh

Major(s): Econometrics and Quantitative Economics

Why you chose Whitman: Whitman has a good variety of international students and studying away from home was an essential factor I looked for when I did my college search. When I came to Whitman, I discovered all other treasurers it holds. It offers so many resources to its students from all different backgrounds, which varies from academic and career support to physical and mental health.

Favorite things to do in Walla Walla: Walla Walla and neighboring towns and cities have beautiful nature. I enjoy going on hikes with my friends and exploring the nature that Walla Walla holds during the spring or fall. During the winter, there are lots of spaces to go cross country skiing and alpine skiing. I usually go cross country skiing either with my friends or on trips organized by the Whitman Outdoor Program. In addition to nature, Walla Walla has lots of diners and cafes that serve good food from different parts of the world. During the weekends, I like to go out with my friends for a change of scenery to have a meal and enjoy the vibes that downtown brings to us. It’s also a beautiful town to go on walks in and this is one of my favorite things to do because there’s always something new to explore.

Favorite spot on campus: My favorite spot on campus is Ankeny field, especially when the sun is out. It’s very spacious when playing outdoor games and so many students go out on Ankeny when the sun is out. It reminds me of the community I live in.

Best class you’ve taken on campus: My favorite class is Principles of Macroeconomics. As an economics major, this is one of the required courses and taking it has taught me so much about the extent to which economics and economic decisions interfere with our daily lives. It also grew my love for economics and studying people’s behavior with money from different contexts.

Favorite campus traditions: International student night because I get to share part of my identity with my friends and fill them in about how we live our lives back home. I also love seeing and learning about my peers’ cultures and ways in which they differ and are similar to my own culture.