Zen E.
Tour Guide at Winthrop University
Class of 2029
Hometown: Florence, SC
Major: Design
Concentration: Illustration
My favorite Winthrop tradition...
My favorite Winthrop tradition has to be the Blue Line! After leaving Convocation, walking through the campus with my all my peers who have also just arrived at Winthrop, while faculty clap and cheer for us who many I had yet to meet and some I now know and appreciate, was heartwarming. It was overall a very welcoming experience and brought me and my roommates, who are now my closest friends, together. Being able to look at all that Winthrop has to offer with the clubs and organizations made me so excited for the years to come!
I chose Winthrop because…
When deciding on a university to commit to, I had a large amount of trouble. None of where I searched seemed like the right fit for me and my career path. As a design student, many of the schools I toured seemed to only offer the fine arts or not give any attention to the arts in general. Coming from a place where the arts are severely underfunded and undermined, I wanted a college to call home where my passion was appreciated as well as a place where I can continue to learn and grow in other academic areas. When I went on my first tour of Winthrop, I was amazed at how supportive not only the faculty but the students were. Everyone I spoke to seemed to really love what they do and love their campus. Winthrop was the only place I found that had the design program I was looking for and a gorgeous campus with plenty of trees and foliage. Winthrop felt authentic and that they really did want me to be here, learn who I am, and reach my goals. Rather than just being another number, I felt like a valued person.
My most memorable Winthrop experience…
I think my most memorable experience at Winthrop would definitely be during welcome week. Exploring the campus, meeting new people, bonding with my roommates, and partaking in all of the fun activities set up by the faculty and student groups really made my first impression of truly being a Winthrop student shine. I remember going to the foam party on campus green with my roommates, dancing and jumping into piles of bubbles. Then afterwards us heading back to our dorm and having to wash off all the soap and grass from our shoes and clothes. I've never felt like I belonged more anywhere else!
My favorite spots in Rock Hill are…
Some of my go-to spots are definitely downtown, I love a good, sweet treat so my first recommendation is always Amélie's! They make the best pastries and seasonal drinks. Books on Main and Ramble on Records are also a must see if you are looking for some affordable book and music finds. Ramble on Records has also hosted art shows! Me and my roommate painted broken records and were able to display them in the shop. Rock hill has a wonderful community and amazing atmosphere.