Faces of W&L: Mark Holden ’25 Holden, who came to W&L in part because of its study abroad program, looks forward to traveling and learning.

By Kevin Remington
April 29, 2022

Q: Why did you choose to come to W&L?

I choose to come to W&L because of a past teacher. He recommended that I apply here because he knew it had a great study abroad program, gave out good financial aid and had fantastic teachers.

Q: What are you most looking forward to during your time at W&L?

I’m looking forward to studying abroad. I’m going to Denmark in the spring and hope to continue to travel for the next four years.

Q: What has been your greatest accomplishment since arriving at W&L?

My greatest accomplishment since coming to W&L was speaking at a national symposium centered around education. I was able to express my views to hundreds of individuals who had the means to create real change. Having my voice heard as a student was empowering.

Q: Who at W&L has been most inspiring to you so far?

I would consider many of my peers inspirational. They have shared their perseverance to get past personal barriers, creative frames of mind or inspiring life skills. They have helped encourage me to show an authentic version of myself or think critically about my actions. Ignas Volcokas, Valentina Lozano, Will Hawley, Irina Koleva and Mariam Drammeh are some of the many fantastic people on campus.

Q: What inspires you?

I am inspired by authenticity and creativity. However, I’m motivated to act on logic.

Q: What are your hobbies/interests?

In my free time, I work on puzzles, read and dance. I recently performed in a multicultural showcase.

Q: What book has made the most significant impact on your life?

I loved reading “1984.” However, the book that has been the most significant was “Zen Shorts.”

Q: What is your favorite movie?

I don’t have a favorite movie.

Q: If you could have a conversation with anyone, who would it be and why?

If I could have a conversation with anyone, I’d have a conversation with Bill Gates. I think Bill Gates may have some great advice on life, plus in a past interview, he offered to write a check of any amount to the interviewer. I’d hope to get this same opportunity.

Q: Tell us a fun fact about yourself.

A fun fact about me is my friends pooled their money to buy my current phone for my birthday.