From a young age, Sophia Bonacorda developed a passion for history. As she grew up and had to decide what she wanted to do with it, it was an obvious choice to study history.
Bonacorda took the leap to move from the village of Plainfield, Illinois out here to Arizona to join the Sun Devil family. ASU was the best for the academic career she wanted to have and although moving was difficult, she did not regret the decision.
Now as she is about to graduate, we sat down with her and asked her a few questions about her time as a student.
Question: What’s something you learned while at ASU — in the classroom or otherwise — that surprised you, that changed your perspective?
Answer: While at ASU I learned that respect and compassion go a long way in the professional world.
Q: Which professor taught you the most important lesson while at ASU?
A: John Romero taught me that not knowing everything is perfectly okay and asking for help will actually make me a better historian.
Q: What’s the best piece of advice you’d give to those still in school?
A: I would advise students to take it all in because it goes faster than you think.
Q: What was your favorite spot on campus, whether for studying, meeting friends or just thinking about life? If you’re not on campus, where is your favorite place to study?
A: My favorite spot on campus would have to be the picnic tables outside oh Hayden Library. They are tucked away which makes for a quiet study area. Off campus, I like to study at Starbucks.
Q: What are your plans after graduation?
A: After graduation I plan to take the summer months to travel and unwind after college. This summer I will be traveling to Germany, Poland, Austria, New Jersey, Wisconsin, and Illinois.
Q: If someone gave you $40 million to solve one problem on our planet, what would you tackle?
A: With $40 million dollars, I would fund research to find a cure for Friedreich’s Ataxia, a debilitating, life-shortening, degenerative neuro-muscular disorder.