Oneeka Kohli graduated from Mercer University’s College of Liberal Arts and Sciences with a Bachelor of Arts in communication studies and Spanish.
What are your plans after graduation?
I will be going to Emory University to get my Doctor of Physical Therapy.
What is one of your favorite Mercer memories?
Choosing one memory is difficult for me because I have so many — from working admissions events to being a peer advisor to volunteering with MerServe. Mercer had provided me with so many memories, which makes it so difficult to simply choose one. These memories were made with my friends and my family, which makes them even more special, and each one holds a special place in my heart. So, though I cannot simply pinpoint one memory, I can tell you whole heartedly that I made so many amazing ones.
How do you plan on changing the world?
As a physical therapist, I have to work with my patients and help them get to the lifestyle that they had previously. That means that I am going to change the world one patient at a time and help them enjoy their lives more and the activities that they enjoy doing. My hope is to also encourage my patients.
What advice do you have for incoming students?
Take it one day at a time. Some days are going to seem hard while others will be a breeze. However, by taking in every day one day at a time, you will not only be more successful but also you will be able to cherish and enjoy the memories you make. Instead of worrying about your senior year at Mercer, stay in the present and enjoy your freshman year. You have heard it before I am sure, but you are never going to get the time back. As a senior, it hit me that this was going to be the last time I would be able to do some of the activities that got me through my Mercer career. I worked my last admissions event, I went to my roommate’s last Mercer Theatre show and so many more lasts. Enjoy those firsts.
How did Mercer prepare you for your future?
Mercer has pushed me in many different ways. I have been pushed outside of my comfort zone by having to give speeches to prospective students as well as taking challenging classes. Through these two experiences, among others, I can say that I am ready for what is coming next. I now truly understand the root of the statement, “At Mercer, everyone majors in changing the world.” I’ve lived it: here on campus, in the Macon community and abroad. I’m better prepared for it, and I’m ready to take on what’s next. Sometimes being in these uncomfortable situations is what pushes one to be a better version of themself, and so I am thankful for each and every one of them because they have all allowed me to become as successful as I am today.
What makes Mercer special to you?
There is so much that makes Mercer special. Its people are like a family. Wherever you go, you will find someone that you instantly connect with. At Mercer, you make lifelong friendships and connections, which is a very special aspect. We get so many different opportunities to truly bring meaning to our mantra, “At Mercer, everyone majors in changing the world.” There are opportunities for leadership, growth, development and so much more. Mercer is a place that I can say has taught me how to change the world.
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