After taking an introductory international relations class on campus, Shawna Gikori ’23 knew she had made the right decision to transfer to Queens University of Charlotte from Central Piedmont Community College. Originally from Kenya, Gikori was in search of a university that would develop her knowledge of other cultural contexts while immersing herself in a community that would embrace her own. The commuter student found the welcoming, diverse environment she longed for at Queens.

“I really enjoy learning about other cultures and how they relate to one another,” said Gikori. “Interacting with different cultures and people asking me where I’m from and what my culture is like has just been really great.”

As Gikori heads towards graduation this May with plans of leveraging her education to work in her industry and travel abroad, she encourages students who are hoping to attend Queens in the new year to get involved on campus.

“My advice to students who hope to transfer or apply to Queens is to get to know the community here,” she said. “I feel like I have made some really great friendships here and I am going to miss all of the community events and amazing things that Queens has to offer.”

Learn more about Shawna Gikori ’23 in the following video.