As first-year students start their college career at Case Western Reserve University, they likely all hear the same two words: “get involved.” So many students in all areas of the university take this mantra to heart—especially Chris Linderwell, a senior who plans to graduate in May with a bachelor’s and master’s degree in accounting.
When not hitting the books, Linderwell spends his not-so-free time interning at marketing agency Rosetta in downtown Cleveland and serving as president of the Interfraternity Congress, student ambassador for the Ohio Society of CPAs and undergraduate representative on the dean search committee for Weatherhead School of Management—not to mention spending time with his Phi Delta Theta brothers and attempting to catch up on sleep.
But that’s not all. Learn more about the Hilliard, Ohio, native.
1. What’s on your iPod?
Right now, one of my friends has me hooked on a mashup artist, The White Panda. I also have a lot of Kid Cudi, Red Hot Chili Peppers and Linkin Park.
2. What’s your favorite spot in Cleveland and why?
East 4th Street. It’s in the heart of downtown and is right next to the Q [Quicken Loans Arena] and Progressive Field, so it offers a ton of entertainment. There are also some really great eateries and nightlife, which make it a very fun atmosphere and lively environment. My favorite place on East 4th is The Greenhouse Tavern; if you haven’t been there yet, get on it.
3. If you could only take three books with you to a deserted island, what would you take?
- The Lost Symbol by Dan Brown—I’ve been meaning to read it.
- The complete Harry Potter series by J.K. Rowling—I know this is cheating, but I don’t care.
- The Bible—I’ve always wanted to read it from beginning to end.
4. What one word would you use to describe yourself, and what one word would your friends use to describe you?
I would describe myself as ambitious, as cliché as it sounds, because since I arrived my freshman year I have continually pushed the limits on what I think I can handle and have done my best to get involved and seize as many opportunities as possible. I think my friends would describe me as motivated.
5. What’s your favorite thing about Case Western Reserve University?
Aside from the winters (just kidding), my favorite thing about CWRU is the enriched experience we get in our short time here. Not only do you get one of the best educations in the country, but the sheer amount of opportunities for people to get involved and take their learning outside of the classroom is overwhelming. Looking back, it is humbling to know that I was able to get involved in a lot, make a difference and leave the university a better place than I found it. CWRU offers that opportunity to everyone willing to accept it.