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Gracie Underwood '26

Gracie Underwood

Class Year

’26

Hometown

Kenosha, Wisconsin

Major(s)

Sociology

Minor(s)

Social Justice

A recipient of the Mahone Fund Scholarship, Gracie Underwood ’26 always knew she wanted to attend Carthage because it’s the same college her father went to. Now a sociology major with a minor in social justice, her pride in being a Carthage student has only deepened thanks to the transformative experiences she’s had through three J-Term study abroad trips. She toured central Europe with the Treble Choir; studied religion, music, and culture in Tanzania; and traveled to Paris, where she studied history and philosophy. “I am incredibly grateful for these opportunities,” she says. “What you can learn in ten days in a foreign context is amazing.”

Gracie’s connection to Carthage is even more meaningful because of her strong ties to the local community, being born and raised in Kenosha. She loves to connect with nature, and her favorite pastime is going to the shore of Lake Michigan and searching for sea glass. She also enjoys attending local events, such as concerts, the farmers’ market, and local shops. “It is impossible to get bored in this town,” Gracie says.

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“Before college, it was easy for me to be a passenger in my educational journey — but at Carthage, I am encouraged to take the lead.”

Gracie Underwood, ’26

Why Carthage?

“I always knew I wanted to come to Carthage. My dad is a Carthage alumnus, and he would take me to the College’s library when I was younger to work on my elementary school projects. I also had the opportunity to tour the College a few times while in middle and high school. I chose Carthgae because it felt like home. Additionally, I knew it would be easy to connect with my professors and peers.”

Faculty mentors

“Professors at Carthage are incredibly dedicated to helping students succeed. Every professor I’ve had has learned my name and many still greet me in the hallway. My professors have made me feel comfortable asking questions and for help.”

Favorite class

“My favorite class at Carthage was definitely Sex, Gender, and Sexuality in a Diverse World with Professor Bradley Zopf. That class showed how people with other identities experience the world. I enjoy classes that broaden my perspective on life.”

Toughest class

“Modern Caribbean: From Pirates to the Cuban Missile Crisis was a challenging class. The content was extremely interesting, but we were really challenged to dig deep into our readings. I learned a lot, but it was hard work. Ultimately, I am proud of how I did in the class and grateful to Professor Stephanie Mitchell for pushing us.”

Campus involvement

“I am a student ambassador for the Admissions Office and give tours to prospective students. Additionally, I am working on starting a support system for grieving students. I lost my dad at the beginning of the summer, and I feel it is important to have resources for students grieving on campus.”

Career goal

“I can see myself working in social services. I don’t know what that will look like, but my passion lies in caring for and supporting others.”

Favorite spot on campus

“My favorite spot on campus is the ceramics studio. I spent a lot of time there, and I am currently taking my third Ceramic Wheel-Throwing class.”

Favorite memory

“My favorite Carthage memories were made while on my study tours. On my European choir tour, a couple of us took a short boat trip to a tiny island in Germany. There was a beautiful chapel that we felt we just had to sing in. The five of us sang one of our songs, which was absolutely magical. Another moment on the tour, we were in a cave, and our director had us sing; the acoustics were beautiful.”

Best study tip

“A huge part of studying is finding the right environment for you. For me, I need it quiet but not silent. The best study spot for me is the A. F. Siebert Chapel. It’s quiet enough to focus, but people still walk through, so I don’t feel isolated. Study space is different for everyone. If you enjoy stimulation while studying, then Starbucks is for you; if you prefer a quiet environment, then a study room might be a better option.”

Best tip for making friends

“JǾ clubs that seem even remotely interesting! The people there already have a common interest, and it’s a great starting space for deeper relationships.”