Zion Rome, a double major in political science and English, plans to become an attorney. With an eye on practicing corporate or entertainment law, he has made the most of academic and campus work opportunities to build his resume. Zion says community is a high point in his Berry Journey: “I have found lifelong best friends that I could have only dreamed of before attending. … Even with faculty and staff, it is so easy to get to know them on a personal level.”
Currently a junior, Zion reflects on the formative experiences and relationships that have shaped his college career.
What drew you to study political science and English on the pre-law track at Berry?
After changing my major a few times, I realized political science would set me up well for law school. I have always loved literature and writing, so my mom recommended English, which I have ended up loving. The two majors are quite different, but they are both rooted in analyzing and interpreting different pieces of text, whether it is a novel or the Constitution, and understanding how that text is relevant for us today.
How has your LifeWorks position as a Berry College ambassador contributed to your professional development?
Within this job there is also a lot of team collaboration, and it has been amazing to be able to work with others and now, being upperclassmen, lead others to be able to learn the ropes. My favorite part of this job is being able to be a part of a student’s college decision process. I have been able to meet some incredible students from all over the country, and there is no better feeling than starting school in August and seeing someone you gave a tour to.
How did your Berry experiences prepare you for an internship with Gearhiser Peters Elliott & Cannon?
My job in the admissions office … has helped me learn the skill of flexibility, as often in admissions we have a family trying to get onto a tour or have some unforeseen issue that has to be solved. Being quick to think of solutions helped me within my internship, as I was sometimes tasked with finding a client or witness and was forced to think outside of the box when the first option did not work out.
How have Berry mentors impacted your life?
Two of my greatest mentors have been my coaches, Caitlyn Moriarty [head volleyball coach] and Rachel Ford [assistant volleyball coach]. I have the honor of working as the volleyball practice player. … there have been many days I have just sat in their offices working through issues I am struggling with, such as school or even friend problems. They have poured a lot of love into me and made me not only a better volleyball player but also a better person.
Alex Livingston, who served as a WinShape first- and second-year coordinator, pushed me to lead a small group, as he was able to see something in me that I did not see within myself, and this small group has changed my life for the better.
What do you plan to focus on during your May study abroad to Morocco with the English department?
What I am looking forward to the most is the cultural immersion and being able to experience life on the other side of the world. I plan to focus on learning more about the culture of Morocco and gaining a better understanding of how life goes on there.
What advice would you offer a student considering a political science and/or English degree at Berry?
They are both smaller departments, so it is so easy to get to know other students and professors. Taking an intro course in either major is a great way to test out the major and see if it is something you would enjoy.
