Marc Armeña (he/him)
Senior, Hanszen College
Curious, Spontaneous, Goofy
Majors: Mechanical Engineering and Art History
What is something you’re proud of this year?
I feel so lucky and grateful for my time at Rice that I feel that I have to list two things! First, I cannot be more delighted to mention working with the Asian American Archive in collecting oral histories from local Filipinx artists, culminating in a collaboration with the artist Bennie Flores Ansell for the installation Swarm Migration at the Moody. Focusing specifically on the Filipino diaspora and my Filipino culture’s history at the university became a process of co-learning with Bennie, and seeing my history reflected in this artistic activation emboldened my current pursuits. Second, with my co-coordinators Sarah and Arvind, we crafted PhotO-Week at Hanszen. The privilege of leading a team of dedicated, spirited, and generous student advisors to introduce the matriculating class of 2022 was truly a gift. Even more rewarding is seeing this class flourish, and find their niche at Hanszen and Rice.
What advice would you give to your freshman self?
Your Rice experience won’t be short of opportunities, highs, and lows, but know that the community here wants to see you succeed and recognizes that whatever journey you take to get there is valid.
How have you utilized the SSI office this year? How has SSI been beneficial for you this year?
The SSI Office has been instrumental for my well-being and academic success this past year! Through my weekly meetings with my advisor, I have found an advocate who gave space for me to work through issues with time management, motivation, and perfectionism. What I especially appreciate is the level of care from SSI in their guidance, from being flexible and responsive to my needs to the time and attentiveness they dedicate to each student.
Any advice for other students?
- Don’t be afraid to explore whatever interests you have. Take those random courses on Liberation Theologies or the Chemistry of Cooking or that cool-sounding film class.
- Never pass up a late-night talk, but make sure you get enough sleep.
- Eat Amy’s ice cream.
- Take risks. Smile often. Strive for happiness. You’ve got this.