Student Profile
Matthew Arkell
History Major, Class of 2007
Charlestown, NH
Matthew Arkell says that he's known he wanted to study history since he was in the eighth grade. So, the questions was where, not what, to study when the time came to choose a college. Johnson State was an attractive option, he found. Its beautiful location, quiet campus, small size and positive reputation among students all convinced Matthew that JSC was the right place for him.
He describes his time so far at JSC as one of "really positive growth." Not only are his fellow history majors just as excited about history as he is — a "pleasant surprise," he jokes — but he counts the quality of teaching and the experience of his professors to be of "incredible value."
Matthew was also excited to find that at JSC it was easy to start a club based on his interests. "Some of us began a political activist club," he says. "Since then, we’ve been to Montpelier, New York City twice and Washington D.C. twice, once for the inauguration of the President in 2004."
When he's not in class or out on the streets making his voice heard, Matthew likes to research and study (and sometimes relax) in the campus library. He also enjoys catching a concert or play at the Dibden Center.
Matthew intends to continue his history studies at the graduate level, eventually teaching in college or working or international policy — or, perhaps, both. His dedication to and interest in the subject will no doubt be a key to his success. But he also recognizes being part of JSC's small, tightly knit community, where students are encouraged to follow their passions was a unique and valuable opportunity.