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Student Spotlight: Ben Hastings– Senior ‘18

What is the best thing about studying History?

My favorite thing would be the professors in the program who are really helpful and knowledgeable. It's a small major and we have all become a pretty close, tight-knit group of students and professors. This semester, I am most excited about Topics in African History with Professor Moore. He always brings intriguing and thought-provoking concepts forward to the class. This makes going to class fresh and enjoyable.

What was it like attending Model UN this year?

Participating in Model UN in the spring was an amazing experience. I was a bit overwhelmed with the thousands of people who attended from all over the world, at first. Overall, it was an awesome experience to interact with people and become part of the United Nations through this educational opportunity. It gave me an understanding of how people represent their nation with dignity and respect towards each other and create legislation for the entire world to follow. It was such a cool experience and I highly recommend people give it a try!

What was it like meeting the Ambassador of Malta?

It was so wonderful! Ambassador Carmelo Inguanez was so down-to-earth. We were fortunate to visit the actual embassy with him, which is just a tiny building in New York City. We got to talk to him about the Maltese government, their foreign policies, and the country of Malta itself. Though it is a small country, they have enormous power in the United Nations and Amb. Inguanez told us how he copes with this tremendous responsibility. He was such an awesome person to meet!

What is your Dream Job? How is Roberts helping achieve this?

My dream job is to become a labor attorney. My professors and advisors are helping me and providing guidance for applying for law school, while also teaching me crucial concepts to get my degree.

I plan on taking some time off after graduation before I head to law school, but I would love to attend either the University at Buffalo Law School or Syracuse Law!

What is your favorite thing about being on the soccer team?

My favorite part is the friends I have made on the soccer team; I have met new people from around New York State and around the world. The team has great chemistry both on and off the field. We are a team and a family that supports each other, no matter what. I like that we get to represent Roberts NCAA DII athletics and traveling to New York City and Washington D.C. is always fun! I am enjoying my last season on the team and I look forward to our progress in the season.

Who is your biggest role model at Roberts?

I have had so many great professors here at Roberts, but Professor Stansbury has been my role model here. He is caring and truly takes the extra steps to connect with students both in the classroom and through social media. He tries to find new ways to make the learning experiences enjoyable for us as students. It is refreshing to experience his proactive style of teaching.

What is your favorite food in Garlock?

My “fav” is whenever there are chicken nuggets! The food is great!

Faculty Feedback:

RJ Stansbury, Ph.D., Professor of History; Chair, Department of History

“I have thoroughly enjoyed having Ben in my courses and watching him develop and grow over the last couple of years. He brings a wonderful balance of academic ability and enthusiasm to his studies. He is a young man with a strong character that is seen both in terms of his relationship with fellow students and with fellow members of the men's varsity soccer team. He is a great addition to our history program here at Roberts and I look forward to the outstanding contributions he will continue to make in the future. ”

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