Ruby O’Connor,
University of Oregon

Degrees: BA in International Studies, Minor in Arabic Studies

How did the Stamps Scholarship help shape your undergraduate experience?
The Stamps Scholarship enabled me to study abroad in Jordan for nine months and travel extensively during that time.

Tell us a piece of wisdom you’ve learned over the past four years.
Don’t make assumptions.

Who has had the greatest impact on you throughout your college career and how so?
My Arabic instructors have all had an important impact on me throughout my college career, as they have encouraged me to pursue Arabic further and continue to challenge myself.

What’s your favorite Stamps Scholar memory?
My favorite Stamps Scholar memory is meeting the younger classes of scholars at UO every year–they’re always academically impressive, fun and friendly people!

What comes next?
I’m moving to Portland, OR and working for a bit before going on to graduate school, possibly for studying Arabic.

Please share your favorite inspirational quote.
“The fact is that we are painters in real life, and the important thing is to breathe as hard as ever we can breathe.” – Vincent Van Gogh