Member Profiles
Tiffany Wilhelm
What is your major?
Secondary Mathematics Education
What kind of career do you hope to pursue after graduating from McKendree University?
I hope to find a middle school or high school teaching position in a nearby community
school.
Describe your tapping experience.
I was sitting in Complex Variables when my professor, Dr. Alewine, walked in dressed
in his full gown. He read a statement explaining the requirements to receive this
honor. Afterward, I was asked to step out into the hallway and was formally presented
with the invitation to join Phi Kappa Phi. It was topped off with handshakes from
all the tappers and a hug from my professor. I remember how proud he was of me and
this made the experience so much more meaningful.
How did you feel when you became a member of Phi Kappa Phi?
I was greatly honored to become a member. It was honestly one of the most rewarding
experiences of my college career because I know how prestigious this society is. It
was always my goal to become a member and I was proud of myself for all of the work
and dedication that it took to accomplish this goal.
Lauren Jones
What is your major?
Elementary Education with English Minor
What kind of career do you hope to pursue after graduating from McKendree University?
Upon graduating from McKendree University, I plan to pursue a career as a classroom
teacher where I will pass on a love of learning and share the values of working as
a community.
Describe your tapping experience.
Being tapped by Phi Kappa Phi members is an unforgettable experience. I remember sitting
in class and four members of the honor society entered. As they singled out my name,
they also spoke to the class about the prestigious honor I was being awarded. After
the announcement, they welcomed me to join them in the hall where they formally presented
my invitation to join Phi Kappa Phi. It's a wonderful experience to be recognized
for my academic achievements and to be warmly welcomed into such a distinctive organization.
How did you feel when you became a member of Phi Kappa Phi?
I feel very honored to be a member of Phi Kappa Phi. I am happy to be part of an honor
society whose mission to spread a love of learning is equal to my own. To be recognized
at such a high academic level is very rewarding.
Hannah McDowell
What is your major?
My major is Elementary Education with a specialization in music and a middle school
endorsement.
What kind of career do you hope to pursue after graduating from McKendree University?
I hope to become either an elementary music teacher or a general classroom elementary
teacher. I would like to teach any grade between 1st and 4th grades. I also plan on
giving private piano lessons.
Describe your tapping experience.
One morning in March, I was tapped during my Earth Science class. Mary Frances Daylor,
the nurse, and a professor came into the classroom and asked my professor if they
could make an announcement on my behalf. They announced my nomination for induction
into Phi Kappa Phi, and then the class applauded for me. I was scared at first because
I did not know why they were making an announcement about me or what Phi Kappa Phi
was. After the announcement, they took me out into the hallway and gave me a letter
of information regarding Phi Kappa Phi and the induction process. I felt very honored
and surprised! I was excited to be nominated for such a prestigious society.
How did you feel when you became a member of Phi Kappa Phi?
When I became a member of Phi Kappa Phi, I felt very honored and humbled. I give all
of the credit to God for helping me obtain academic success throughout my education,
and I was humbled that He brought me to such an elite society.