The son of Department Chair and Associate Professor of Philosophy Matthew Walz, Ph.D., MBA ’20, Damien Walz, BA ’22, grew up around UD and fell in love with its liberal arts curriculum. The decision to come to UD was a relatively straightforward one, but which major to pursue was not: Walz changed his mind approximately seven times before settling on politics.

Catherine Schwenk, BA ’22, intended to double major in psychology and philosophy. However, after taking Principles of American Politics in the fall of her freshman year, she knew that politics was what she really was meant to study.

Joseph Galasso, BS ’22, initially considered other science majors at UD but ultimately decided on biology; the program allowed him to pursue his interests beyond the classroom.

Thomas Thompson, BA ’22, had planned to go to the University of St. Thomas in St. Paul, Minnesota, where one of the professors astounded him “with his piercing intellect and charismatic lecture.” However, this professor was a UD alumnus who persuaded Thompson to look more closely at UD.

First-generation college graduate Jeanine Dorrough, BA ’22, hadn’t even planned on going to college — then she received a postcard from UD in the mail and felt pulled to apply.

Entering into UD, Faith Starnes, BA ’22, planned to be a biology major, on a pre-physical therapy track. As a sophomore, she added a theology concentration, which opened her eyes to the beauty
of theology and made her realize her deep love for the discipline.

As a homeschooled student, Elizabeth Regnerus, BA ’22, chose to skip her last year of high school, starting her freshman year at UD instead, a decision for which she is eternally grateful.

Noah Torres, BA ’21, always knew he wanted to study theology and politics. In seventh grade, he found himself fascinated by the doctrine of the Immaculate Conception. This interest only grew through high school, and he found himself at UD on the recommendation of his theology teachers, who were themselves UD grads.

At the University of Dallas, students learn to grapple with the great thinkers of history. Natalie Villafranca, BA ’21, discovered a passion for something else ancient and all too often overlooked: our coral reefs.

It is common for new college graduates to still be a bit unsure what they want to be when they “grow up.” Veronica Rose Garcia, BA ’21, is not that sort of person. At a time in life when many people are simply looking toward their first job and hoping for the best, Garcia has detailed five- and 10-year plans for achieving multiple additional degrees and an ambitious career that will be of great service to the country and to the world.