Raymond Christopher Geoffrey Bonniwell

What was the most impactful class you took in your major? 

The most impactful class I took was my study abroad program as part of the San Giuliano Archaeological Research Project. This fulfilled my 300 level Archaeology requirement and it is here I truly fell in love with Archaeology and I made a ton of friends while working in Italy. I gained a lot of useful experience in historical artefact preservation and an appreciation for Archaeological research.

What activities were you involved in during your time at Mason that impacted you? 

I am an ROTC cadet at George Mason which has given me a significant amount of discipline and meaning in my time at Mason as it added commitments both to being an academically successful student but a leader and an athlete as well. In tandem with classes I also attended field training with my battalion at Quantico Marine Corps base as well as completion of Advanced Leadership Training at Fort Knox, Kentucky.

What is your most memorable “Mason moment?” 

My most memorable moments at Mason was most likely my classes with Dr. Haagen Klaus and Professor Steven Barnes. Both of these professors were mentors in my Anthropology and Russia Studies degrees respectively and each brought insightful messages and a heap of motivation to each of their classes. I will sorely miss both of these professors once I leave Mason.

As you are reflecting on your time at Mason, what is one piece of advice you would give a student who is just starting off on their Mason journey?

Branch out of your classes! Mason has so much to offer outside of the academics, as a commuter school with easy access to D.C. there is a rewarding professional experience around every corner.

What is your next step after graduation? What are your future plans?

I will be an officer in the U.S. Army Reserve based in Fort Story, VA near Norfolk. I have yet to find a civilian job but I intend to work in a field that utilizes language training, particularly Russian.