Student Profile: Ashley Bennett
Hometown: McMinnville, OR
Institution: Linfield College
Major: Economics & German
Year: Senior
Ashley Bennett always planned on going to college, but was on her own as to how to go about it. She had not been exposed to any college readiness resources or programs at her high school and both of her parents had not gone to college. When she decided to attend Linfield she found the staff to be extremely helpful in providing guidance for the transition. Her main motivations for choosing Linfield were its location and the financial aid package offered. Over the past four years she has also come to greatly appreciate the well-rounded education and family-like community provided.
It was through one of Linfield’s liberal arts requirements for language that Ashley discovered her talent and love for German, which is now one of her majors. This past summer she completed an intensive summer language program through Portland State University and is currently in the process of applying for a Fulbright to teach English in Germany. Her secondary plan is to pursue a master’s degree in Agricultural Economics.
Ashley values the tight-knit community on campus. She speaks very highly of the Linfield faculty for their accessibility and support, and refers to them as “incredible resources.” She is impressed by the quality of professors that teach at Linfield noting that several have Ivy-League experiences either from their own educations or in teaching, but have chosen to come to Linfield because of their personal desire to do so.
Ashley has thrived in her education despite financial obstacles and taken advantage of the resources provided at Linfield. She is a member of the Greenfield Club, Global Action, and the president of the German Club. She also has been involved in the community by partnering with the Yamhill Peacemakers. She is a Regence Scholar this year, which has lifted a huge financial burden. Throughout the years financial assistance has become increasingly difficult to secure, and Ashley credits her ability to finish her undergraduate education to scholarships.