Amy McGranahan

Student

“Religions, all walks of life, different philosophies: These are the things that I find at SMC. Everyone’s got a story and firm goals to achieve.”

She’s wired for both the ‘hardware’ and the ‘software,’ is Amy McGranahan. “Right now I’m studying English and Engineering,” explains Amy of her dual nature. “I love learning about people and how they interpret their environment through literature. It gives you a lot of insight into people’s religious values and their psychological associations. At the same time,” she continues, “all the ‘hard’ sciences you study in Engineering give you a more solid view of how people manipulate and relate to the physical world. I just thoroughly enjoy both fields of study.”

Yet another field of inquiry for this curious McGranahan is the nature—and benefits of—involvement on the SMC campus. “I’ve always been involved in student government, and when I heard there was going to be a new Associated Students position, I ran for it.” Now the Interclub Council Secretary, Amy reports, “I have a much better sense of belonging now. And I feel that any time you can make connections with people—for the sake of your career or maybe just being around those with similar interests—it’s all to your benefit.”

Another distinct benefit bestowed upon Amy by SMC is the quality of the teachers she’s found. “Mr. James Pacchioli is my English teacher, and he always expresses a genuine concern for his students and for literature,” says Amy. “His teaching is almost like a sacred object that he has the privilege of sharing with us.” And Amy passes along the privilege of learning whenever she can. “I tutor in math at John Adams for my community service in the Honor Society,” she reports. “Learning and teaching to me mean both real growth and strength as a person.” 

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