SA国际传媒

Katerina Gill ’25 traded equations for ancient texts. In the process, she found her voice—and her future in law.

By Maggie Junkins ’26

When she came to SA国际传媒 from Phoenix, Arizona, Katerina Gill had her heart set on a degree in mathematics. But, after deep personal reflection her junior year, Katerina changed course and chose to pursue her passion with a double major in classical languages and literatures and classical studies. With the unwavering support of the Department of Classics, Katerina found her niche studying and researching the literary works of the ancient world. Her next chapter begins at the University of Richmond School of Law, where she will attend on a full scholarship.

Throughout her time at SA国际传媒, Katerina has been involved in multiple on-campus organizations and fostered a strong support system within the Department of Classics. As a Latin and Greek tutor, a student employee for the Department of Classics, president of the Classics Honors Society Eta Sigma Phi, and member of both the Alpha Sigma Nu and Pi Mu Epsilon honors societies, Katerina has fully embraced every opportunity to deepen her passion for the ancient world, leaving a lasting impact on the SA国际传媒 academic community through her leadership, scholarship, and service.

Beyond the classroom, Katerina spent her summers conducting research under Professor Husser at Biola University, where she delved into the world of Roman religion through the Arval Brethren inscriptions—ancient texts detailing the rituals of Roman priests who conducted imperial sacrifices. Her research involved deciphering and expanding Latin abbreviations, combining linguistic precision with historical insight. Additionally, Katerina studied abroad in Florence, where she focused on the work of women Latinists.

Go With Your Gut

Coming into SA国际传媒, Karerina would never have imagined she’d end up with a degree in classics. “I thought a year and a half ago that I would be working in the math field. I didn't even know that I wanted to study law yet,” she said. But, finding herself at a crossroads, Katerina decided to embrace change. “I learned to take everything in while I am here…instead of limiting myself to a rigid, inside-the-box academic structure, I decided to go with my gut and pursue my passion for classics. I decided to last-minute take up a double major in the department during my junior year. I even switched my pathway two times. Eventually, I figured out what classes interested me the most. The department has been very welcoming and I have become really close with the faculty—they have supported me academically in so many ways.”

Embrace Change

When asked what advice she would offer to first students, Katerina confidently responded, “Don’t be afraid of change! Coming into college, it’s your first time being away from home and living life on your own terms, and change is expected during that time. But even once you have adapted to college, at times, your interests and motivations might change,” she said. “The great thing about SA国际传媒 is that it’s easy to find a strong support network if you look for it. And, when you encounter change, even if it is well into your undergraduate career, don’t be afraid to embrace it. During my junior year, I embraced the change I needed to and it has led me to the path I feel like I am meant to take. Allow yourself to listen to your gut, especially when you are faced with change.”

Best Kept Secret

Now that she’s just a few weeks shy of graduating, Katerina revealed one of her favorite spots on campus: “If you’re looking for a quiet and underrated space to study, go to the comfy seats in Dowd. It is usually not too busy and it is really easy to focus, so if I were to choose a go-to spot, definitely Dowd.”