Joao Godoy ’21

What drew you to Lake Forest College?
The campus, the sense of community I felt on my visit, the proximity to Chicago, and the opportunity to play soccer.

Have you had experiences here—besides your classes—that have helped prepare you for your future?
Yes! I have had multiple experiences that have helped me prepare for my future. I have had the opportunity to work with professors, network in career events, learn from my on-campus jobs, work in and with different teams, and even had the experience of living in Chicago while having an internship provided by the College.

How are you handling the sudden change and transition to online learning?
While it can be hard to stay motivated when doing online learning, I have been trying to stay on top of the material and have some sort of schedule that I can hold myself accountable for. I would definitely prefer to be learning on campus but am trying to focus on the positives and take advantage of the benefits of online learning and making the best out of it.

What do you do in your free time (before the COVID-19 pandemic)?
I would usually hang out with my roomates and teammates, workout, take the time to catch up with my family back home, and also watch a lot of tv shows.

What are your plans after graduation?
After graduation I plan on finding a job in Chicago and living there for a couple of years before taking the next step. I am still not sure if and when I will return home to Brazil, but I want to take advantage of the opportunities that come my way first.

Any advice for new Foresters?
One advice I would give to new Foresters is to really take advantage of the opportunities the college has to offer and make sure to connect with your professors and other people around the college who will all care for you and help you in any way they can. You will become a part of a very tight community and meet people that will be by your side throughout your entire college career.

What has been your favorite memory at Lake Forest College?
My favorite memory at Lake Forest College is of homecoming my Junior year, where for the first time since I was here the soccer team did not have an away game and I was able to be on-campus, see old friends, and enjoy my time with all of them. Homecoming really brings back the sense of community and family at Lake Forest College and it was an incredible feeling to truly be part of it that day.

Parting words?
A lot of people can’t wait to be done with college and move on with their lives. While I am excited to see what is waiting for me after college, it also has a bitter feeling as I know how much I will miss Lake Forest, my friends, team, professors, and others around campus who made my college experience be so special.