Patrick Lyn '84

Did Knox College live up to your expectations?

I went to Knox sight unseen. I arrived in Galesburg for the first time at 9:30 at night and was met at the airport by Knox folks. My plane was two-and-a-half hours late, and I had no luggage. But, again, everyone was so welcoming. They picked me up, took me to Knox, and put me up for the night. The next morning, I opened the window, looked outside, and thought, "Oh my god, this place really is flat as a pancake." But I was so overwhelmed by how warm and friendly and welcoming the staff was, the faculty was . . . basically, everyone that I met. I never regretted my decision.

What was it like to be an international student at Knox in the 1980s?

The year I came to Knox was the start of a strong international community at Knox. The College had more international students than in previous years. We created a really strong International Club and founded International Fair during my sophomore year. We decided to hold the fair in January because it's cold, it's dreary, and people are going to be really interested in something that's all about fun and food and music. It's still held in January today. I was very involved on campus in other ways, too. I was in the Admission Suite my sophomore year and spent my junior year abroad in France. I had a column in The Knox Student. I was a DJ on WVKC, and I was also on Honor Board. I always tell folks to get involved. Find something that you love to do. That's how you'll really get the most out of your college experience.

How has your Knox education impacted your life?

Nothing prepares you for life like a liberal arts education. It teaches you to think, it teaches you to reason, and it teaches you to question, but in very logical, reasonable ways. In addition to that, a Knox education fosters independent thinking. Thinking outside the box is what I learned at Knox. That is the thing that has made me successful in my career.