Meet Tyler Humphreys

Major: Classical Studies

Minors: Chemistry and biology
Hometown: Greenville, South Carolina

Tell us about yourself.

My two favorite foods are peanut butter and fried okra -- but not together! I love to watch crime shows on TV, especially Cops and Law and Order. My parents both went to Auburn University, and now my younger brother is there, too. I'm the only person who has broken the family tradition. My favorite novel is Rebecca by Daphne du Maurier.

What are your plans after graduation?

After graduation I will be leaving for Indonesia to teach English for nine months. I'm going through the Fulbright program, and I know it will be the experience of a lifetime.

Have your plans changed over the last four years?

I came wanting to major in classical studies, and I have never regretted that decision. My Latin teacher in high school was wonderful. She really instilled a passion for mythology and ancient literature in me that carried over into college. Although I do not plan to pursue a career in this field, I am so happy that I was able to study it.

How have you grown during the last four years?

Serving in leadership roles has allowed me to grow into a more mature, confident person. From problem solving to working with a large group of diverse people, I feel better equipped to make a positive impact in the real world.

Why did you choose Wake Forest?

A friend recommended Wake Forest to me before my junior year in high school. I visited the campus that summer and immediately felt like it was the right place for me. Now that my four years are over, I'm really happy that I chose Wake Forest because of its close-knit academic and social communities.

What was your favorite class?

My favorite class by far has been Greek Mythology with Dr. James Powell. It's one that everyone should experience at some point in their college career. Dr. Powell has an amazing memory — by the second day, he knew every student by name without looking at a roster. The class is challenging, but the hard work is well worth it.

What was your most meaningful extra-curricular experience?

Volunteering at Baptist Hospital. I learned a lot about health care, and it was nice to get off campus each week to interact with the community.

Who has influenced you most?

My parents have been my greatest influence. They always encourage me to pursue my dreams, and they provide unconditional support along the way. I wouldn't be the person that I am without them in my life.

What makes a Wake Forest education unique?

Wake Forest is an excellent choice for many reasons, but one of the top ones is definitely the faculty. The professors' willingness to get to know students and provide extra help outside of the classroom is such an asset to the educational process.

What's your favorite memory of the last four years?

My favorite Wake Forest memory comes from the day that the football team won the 2006 ACC Championship game. Finals were approaching, and many people were studying while watching the game on TV. As soon as we won, everyone poured out on the Quad to start rolling the trees with toilet paper. I've never seen that much toilet paper in my life — it literally looked like a snowstorm had hit campus. I had so much fun that day with my friends as we celebrated.

What will you miss most?

For the past three years I've lived on my sorority halls. I will definitely miss being able to walk out of my room and talk to my best friends. However, I won't miss having to share a bathroom with nine other girls!

Advice for incoming freshmen …

Find the right balance between work and fun. The four years will go by faster than you know it, so value the time you have here with friends.

Office of Creative Services
May 8, 2009