Continuing in our series of highlighting Honors Program seniors, we have Grace Trumbo. Grace is an art history major who transferred to Whitworth as a junior from Cottey College in Missouri.

Grace has received the Provost’s Transfer Scholarship, Enhanced Talent Art Award, Phi Theta Kappa Scholarship, and Piano Scholarship over the course of her two years at Whitworth.

Apart from her art history studies, Grace participates in the music department and serves as a campus tour guide and overnight host through the Admissions Office.

Grace was one of ten students who interned at the Smithsonian during the 2018 fall semester. At the National Museum of American History in the Office of Curatorial Affairs, Grace was able to learn more about her future field.

“This work is incredibly relevant to my career goals,” Grace said.

To learn more about Grace’s experience in the Honors Program, we asked her the following questions:

1. What is your “Why Whitworth” story?

I chose Whitworth because of the small class sizes and level of academic excellence. Because I came from a homeschool background, faculty accessibility and student collaboration were my main goals in a college experience. I definitely love knowing my professors and peers on a first name basis. It is very encouraging to be in classes that equip me with the skills and experiences to succeed in my future career.

2. What have been your experiences with the honors program?

I joined the Honors Program in fall 2018 before beginning the Smithsonian Honors Semester that same year. Completing an internship at the Smithsonian National Museum of American History and Whitworth courses in Washington, D.C. were the highlights of my honors experience. I was in a class of ten students with one professor. The small size of our group allowed us the opportunity to complete projects quickly and also engage with the D.C. community through local events and activities. For example, in the evenings we often attended artist talks at museums or orchestra performances in the Kennedy Center. I developed my confidence in independent research, rigorous writing assignments, and interview skills with numerous professionals in the museum field.

3. How has the honors program enhanced your Whitworth experience?

I would not have my incredible Smithsonian experience without Whitworth. I feel incredibly blessed to have had the chance to study off-campus during my short time here. The friends I made through the honors program are truly amazing because we now have a shared experience through the Smithsonian, and enjoy those memories together back on campus.

4. Why should students take advantage of the Honors Program?

Whitworth is unique in that it provides students with an opportunity to intern at amazing places like the Smithsonian Institution. The network of faculty, career services, and the honors department creates an advantageous support team for students who care about achieving their full potential in both Spokane and abroad. I really benefited from the Honors Program by simply asking questions and being open to opportunities.

5. What is your plan for after college?

I will be attending the University of Birmingham (in the UK) in fall 2019. I will be enrolled in the master’s program for Art History and Curating. Then I hope to pursue a career in museum work or begin Ph.D. studies.

6. Where is your favorite spot on campus?

My favorite spot on campus is the music building. I love practicing in one of the rooms on the first floor with the grand pianos. The ceiling-high windows allow the most natural light inside so the space is flooded with soft, golden sunlight in the evenings.

7. What are some of your favorite memories from your years at Whitworth?

The classes I have taken are definitely a highlight of my time at Whitworth. I really enjoyed diving into material in fields outside my major and seeing how everything relates and still applies to my life, regardless of if I pursue a career in that field. The professors really care about their students and are always enthusiastic to share more information during office hours. Campus events like “Haydn Seek” in the music building and BINGO have been pretty epic as well.