Fascination with science pushes Honors Academy student to success

Radford University sophomore Cole Faulkner, of Bland, utilizes the skills learned from the Honors Academy to enhance his college experience.

Faulkner, who is working toward a Bachelor of Science in biology and chemistry with a pre-med concentration, has always been fascinated by science and discovering why things happen.

“Academically, the courses in the Honors program are very unique,” Faulkner said. “The professors are very dedicated to the work ethic of the students and they really push for you to do well in classes.”

Faulkner said that the Honors professors work hard to ensure that each individual student is being challenged academically. A highlight of the program for Faulkner is the opportunity to meet and work with a diverse range of students with varying interests.

Honors students have their own residence hall as a way to strengthen the sense of community within the program. There are a number of events held each year, emphasizing scholarly, social and service involvement, as well as honors conferences that students and faculty travel to annually.

“Everyone is so welcoming and there’s a good sense of comradery within the Honors Academy,” Faulkner said. “It’s a big family.”

Faulkner said being around other students with a similar passion for learning and education pushes everyone to work harder and become better students.

Most Honors classes are held in Floyd Hall, which gives the students a further sense of community engagement and heightened learning. Having required Honors courses ensures that students explore more academic options outside of students’ desired fields.

“It’s valuable because it forces you to go outside your major,” Faulkner said. “You can explore and find out what you like early on, and that helps transition you into knowing what you want to do.”

Faulkner has been able to explore other fields – and participate in varying activities as an Honors student. In spring 2017, Faulkner gave presentations to biology students about combating math anxiety through the Biology Math Attitudes and Anxiety Program so that they could perform better in class.

Hard work and dedication paid off for Faulkner, as he was the recipient of Radford’s Outstanding Student Award during the 2016-17 academic year.

“The Honors Academy gives you opportunities, pushes you to go outside your means and makes you a more well-rounded person,” Faulkner said.