The University of Minnesota is home to nearly 50,000 students majoring in over 50 different fields of study. The campus currently has over 1,000 student organizations, 25 sports clubs, and almost any intramural activity you can think of. There are countless volunteer opportunities on and off campus, and a variety of unique work places and internships. So, how does one stick out in this sea of people?

I was able to meet one special student, Christine Granskog, to learn about what makes her a unique student and the activities she is involved in around campus. As an extremely involved student at the U, Christine manages to follow her passions and expand her comfort zones through her involvement in many different student organizations, including the "Try Something New" club.

Her commitment to our campus community deserves recognition, and I am honored to be a part of the Gopher community where students like Christine aid in the success and unification of our campus.

Meet Christine

Q: What makes you a unique student?

A: I’m involved with a lot of unrelated student groups. At the beginning of freshman year I pulled a Sue Heck from "The Middle" and “over-clubbed” by joining everything I was slightly interested in. I’ve cut down my involvement to things that really interest me and drive me to be a better person. From being part of diverse groups, I’ve had the opportunity to meet so many different people and make connections. I don’t have friends only from my major or from my dorm; instead I know many different kinds of people. I thrive off of bringing people together and finding common interests.

Q: What is your advice for other students who might be interested in pursuing the “Try Something New” Club?

A: Do it! Reach out to me or email us at tsn@umn.edu. We’re just a fun group of odd humans who like to hang out and do things outside the norm. We strive to expand our comfort zones and do activities that we wouldn’t normally make time for in our busy schedules.

Q: What is your day-to-day life like? When do you typically get up in the morning? Do you prioritize work? School? Clubs?

A: I typically wake up at 6:45 a.m. Depending on the day, I go to class or the rec. Then I have work for a couple hours, class again, get home and make dinner. I’m the worst cook ever (burned my rice yesterday) so it’s always something simple like mac & cheese with some microwaved broccoli, rice and beans or anything smothered in peanut butter. After that I usually unwind by talking with my roommates about our days, maybe update our current events wall? Just kidding, we add to that like once a month, I’m saying that to make us sound interesting. Again, depending on the day, I’ll have a meeting for something or another. Then it’s time for homework until my eyes won’t stay open any longer. If I’m in bed before midnight, it’s been a successful day.

Q: What is something you never go a day without doing?

A: Calling my parents. I call them all the time whenever I’m walking from place to place. Honestly, I think it annoys them when I’m just like “hey, again! what’s new in the last three hours?” But, at least they won’t think I’ve forgotten about them!

Q: At the end of the day, what do you always hope to have accomplished?

A: Hopefully, I’ve been able to knock at least something off my homework list, but more importantly, I hope I made a little bit of a difference in the world. I know that sounds cheesy and cliché, but if you haven’t made someone else’s day a little better while taking care of yourself, how are you living? The only thing that really matters in this world is your relationships with those around you. I’m a firm believer in the idea that people remember how you make them feel. There’s enough insecurity and stress in our lives that if I can help make someone’s day a little brighter, why not take that opportunity?

Q: Do you recommend this club to others and how would they find more information on it?

A: Yes, most definitely! You can join our main student group page, and then I’ll email you with more info about the club!

Q: What other interests or hobbies do you have that people might not expect if they don’t know you?

A: I’m obsessed with the moon (if you get my daily moon snaps, consider us good friends). I’m a “big sis” with Big Brothers Big Sisters, shoutout to my “little” @Beatriz. I am part of Colleges Against Cancer, and am very involved in planning Relay for Life. I’m also an avid baker. My biggest stress reliever is making cookies or frosting cupcakes so our apartment usually has some sort of dessert in it, especially during midterms and finals. I LOVE traveling and seeing new places so if you suggest that we go on a trip I probably won’t drop it until the flights are booked

Fast Facts

Hometown: Mt. Prospect, IL

Year in School: Sophomore

Major: Marketing and Supply Chain with a minor in Spanish Studies. I’m technically undecided, but this is what I’m leaning towards. If anyone has any suggestions for my life, plz let me know!!!!

Favorite movie: "Sleepless in Seattle" or "A Cinderella Story"

Favorite subject: Not sure if this counts as a subject, but my favorite class at the moment is a public policy class called Community Organizing for Public Action (highly recommend!).

Favorite fast food place: Cane’s. It’s become a food group for my roommates and I--not good for our bodies or bank accounts, but we have no self control and SO many Postmates delivery codes.

Favorite type of music: I’d describe my favorite music genre as “Chill Pop” on Spotify. I can also be found jamming out to the "Wicked" soundtrack or any old Disney songs.

Favorite spot on campus: Nolte Center or the little beach area behind superblock when it’s warm out

Is there something that makes you or a friend a unique student, whether it be a major, involvement with a club, or something else? Nominate someone to be the next day in the life student here!