Senior history major Michaela Estruth from Cincinnati, Ohio, talks Pompeii, her stick shift skills, and Gingerbread Wars.

What was your reaction to being named Outstanding Senior Woman? 

I was so humbled, honored, and honestly overwhelmed. The realization of leaving Hillsdale, a place that has been so formative, hit me hard. I called my mom and walked briskly to The Collegian office — the only place on this campus I can count on being alone 90% of the time. I had very similar calls with my sister and my dad, and was filled with such gratitude, knowing that my family has shaped me into the woman I am.

I knew Zach had been named Outstanding Senior Man, because I nosily asked Mary Ann, secretary to Dr. Arnn. But he didn’t know about me. I texted him, asking where he was. He was in office hours with Dr. Gaetano — classic. I met him outside the library, and we told each other with some laughs and teary eyes. We’ve been friends and fellow history majors since sophomore year, so it was a joy to share in the honor.

Why did you choose Hillsdale? 

Stubborn, prideful 16-year-old Michaela was outwardly opposed to Hillsdale. I thought my classical education was sufficient and wanted to break the mold of resembling my older sister in every aspect. But, after I attended Hillsdale’s study-abroad trip to Italy, the Lord softened my pride. Turns out, I am a nerd and should just accept it. I applied to colleges amidst the COVID-19 lockdowns, and Hillsdale was the only college who seemed to value me as an individual instead of merely a GPA or CLT score. My acceptance letter was personalized and professional. I was so honored in that moment, and I’m so thankful the Lord graciously humbled me. (Turns out having a wonderful older sister to emulate is a blessing, not something to escape.)

What’s the best piece of advice you received at Hillsdale?

Saying no to something is saying yes to something else — even if it’s just extra time for sleep or fun with friends. If it doesn’t bring you life and joy, say no. Honestly, my mom probably said this first (and still does!), but it’s something I’ve heard a lot here.

What is a book you must have on your shelf?

“A Tale of Two Cities” by Charles Dickens.

Favorite place you’ve visited?

Italy, but specifically Pompeii — I know, it’s morbid.

What’s a fact most people don’t know about you? 

I can drive a stick shift. Also, I’m a twin — no we aren’t identical. He’s my brother. Actually, more polar opposite to be honest.

Favorite movie? 

As a kid — “Monsters, Inc”— it was an Estruth classic. As an adult — “That Thing You Do” is our family’s comedy. Outside of comedies, I’d say “Hacksaw Ridge” or “1917.”

What is your favorite memory from Hillsdale?

This question is unfair. Favorites abound from my time here, but I’ll share one. Junior year Gingerbread Wars night was filled with so many gut-straining laughs. Two of my friends and I thought it’d be a good idea to bring the real meaning of Christmas to Gingerbread Wars, so we tried to make a nativity scene. Let’s just say, it verged on sacrilegious. A picture may exist of us with reindeer antlers on our heads and Christmas pjs, pointing at our masterpiece. After that embarrassment, we all piled in a car and blasted Mariah Carey’s “All I Want For Christmas Is You.” The night ended with some deep conversations, as those two friends were anticipating a semester on WHIP. Overall, it encompassed all the aspects of friendship.

Senior history major Zach Ponraj from Tacoma, Washington, talks the gift of Hillsdale, Rotten Tomatoes, and Late Modern Philosophy.

What was your reaction to being named Outstanding Senior Man?

I was very emotional. I called my dad, and we reminisced about the 18-year-old kid who used to call home sobbing during freshman year. The Lord has been so faithful in the years since then.

Why did you choose Hillsdale?

In a lot of ways, I don’t feel like I chose Hillsdale at all, but that the Lord led me here. Hillsdale was the only school I applied to and I committed before even touring, which feels crazy to think about now. Ultimately, it came down to two things: I felt ill-equipped by my high school education and had a deep desire to truly learn, but I also wanted to be in a place with strong spiritual commitments. Hillsdale offered both.

What’s the best piece of advice you received at Hillsdale?

Two things immediately come to mind. The first is that each of us represents seven to eight other people who didn’t get accepted to Hillsdale. That statistic is haunting, and it’s always made me want to better steward this incredible gift I’ve been given. The second is an old Collegian article from Feb. 26, 2015, titled “Our Education is a Gift We Must Give to Others,” by Andy Reuss. It’s worth looking up.

What is a book you must have on your shelf?

“The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry” by John Mark Comer. It deeply resonates with me, and I genuinely believe every Hillsdale student would benefit from reading it. 

Favorite place you’ve visited?

Ask me after spring break!

What’s a fact most people don’t know about you?

I rarely watch a movie if it has less than a 76% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes.

Favorite movie?

My all-time favorite movie is called “About Time.” It’s a beautiful reflection on love, purpose, and even a realistic take on time travel. The relationship between the dad and son always gets me — I’ve never cried so much during a movie as I did the first time I watched it.

What are your favorite classes from your four years?

The subject matter is definitely above my cognitive level, but I’m taking Late Modern Philosophy with Dr. Cole right now and it might be the best class I have taken at Hillsdale. Western Heritage II with Dr. Gaetano, Continental Literature with Dr. Jackson, and Philosophy of Education with Dr. Kuiper were also phenomenal.