Name: Barbara Blake
High school graduated from: Dimond High School Anchorage, AK
Year of high school graduation: 2000
Hometown: Klawock, AK
Academic Program at UAS: Bachelor of Business Administration (Entrepreneurship)
Class standing at UAS: Junior
How do you think UAS is preparing you for your future?
UAS is giving me the tools necessary to go forth and become a confident and educated professional. I am learning many tools from my courses, but also from the many other experiences UAS provides. I am experiencing many ways to improve my leadership ability through the many clubs and through my internships through UAS.
Do you know what you might be thinking of for a career after college?
I will apply my knowledge and experience in order to add to the success of the Alaska Native people. I hope to do this by first gaining new knowledge from a career in my related field, and hopefully in time starting my own business.
Do you have a favorite class or professor?
I have strongly enjoyed the many classes that allow for the passing on of our Native culture. My Haida Language class is especially important to me not only as a scholar, but as an Alaska Native Woman.
I also have strong respect for those teachers, such as Robert Starbard, who go out of their way to insure that students are not falling behind, and who also provide a sturdy curriculum set that pushes students to learn past any ability they thought possible.
WHY UAS?
I have a strong need to be near the water, and UAS allows me to remain in a temperate rainforest near a glistening, constantly changing ocean world. Academically, UAS provides more personal attention than I have received at any other university. I was treated as a person and not another number. I have constantly received positive help and consideration from all the staff at the UAS, and the smaller class sizes allow for greater personal one on one time with my professors.
What is the most surprising thing you’ve learned about yourself at UAS?
I have learned through my education at UAS that I have the ability to motivate and drive myself past the ability level I had assumed throughout my high school career.
What surprised you the most once you arrived at UAS?
I was surprised at how nice and helpful all the staff was. I was so used to a larger university where there was no room for individualized attention. I was also surprised to realize that the Native and Rural Resource center was welcoming, friendly and also very helpful. The previous university I had attended also had an Alaska Native resource center, but did not reciprocate the same courtesy I was shown at UAS.
What was the most fun you’ve had at any campus event?
The Christmas party put on by Wooch.Een has continued to be one of my favorite events. I have enjoyed games,friends, new faces and yummy, yummy food!
What is the best thing about life at UAS?
A great thing about UAS life is the ability for everyone (no matter their major) to get along, come together, and mesh well with one another to create a united atmosphere. This atmosphere makes those attending feel like they have a strong back-up that will lend a hand if ever needed.
What do you enjoy doing during your free time?
I enjoy planning, and attending Wooch.Een events. I also enjoy just hanging out at the Native and Rural Student Center, and visiting with many people from diverse backgrounds and cultures. I also enjoy playing hockey, hiking the gorgeous trails throughout Juneau, attending cultural events, exposing my son to new and intriguing experiences, and attending a wonderful church.
If you could choose three words that signify UAS, what would they be?
Strength. Unity. Diversity.
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