The Honors Lounge

In this episode of The Honors Lounge, our hosts sit down with two senior students from the W.A. Franke Honors College, Andrew Pongratz and Delaney Chenevert, who are deeply involved with University of Arizona Athletics through C.A.T.S. Student-Athlete Development . They offer a unique behind-the-scenes perspective on the programs and support systems that help student-athletes succeed both on and o...

In this episode of The Honors Lounge, hosts Ben and Adelle talk about the twists and turns that shaped their college experiences. From changing majors to adjusting to life after high school, they share honest reflections on what it’s really like to navigate your time as an undergraduate.  They discuss balancing classes with clubs, learning how to study for different kinds of courses, and why a bad...

In this episode of The Honors Lounge, hosts Ben and Adelle take center stage for a candid conversation about their own journeys through the W.A. Franke Honors College and the University of Arizona. They share how they found their place on campus, reflecting on the clubs, programs, and communities that shaped their experiences—from honoraries and Franke Honors Ambassadors to the PATH Mentoring Prog...

In this episode of The Honors Lounge, our hosts dive into all things Homecoming with special guest Yazin Hindosh , a senior W.A. Franke Honors student and pre-med major. Yazin shares his journey through four years at the University of Arizona—from his involvement in numerous clubs and organizations to his current role in the Bobcat Senior Honorary , one of the university’s most storied traditions....

In this episode of The Honors Lounge, our hosts dig into Tucson’s rich gastronomic scene with a special father-son duo: Felipe Garcia , CEO of Visit Tucson , and his son Felipe Garcia Jr., a W.A. Franke Honors College student double majoring in Political Science and Creative Intelligence and Innovation — and a student regent on the Arizona Board of Regents .  Together, they bring a dynamic mix of...

In this episode of The Honors Lounge , our hosts explore the world of study abroad at the University of Arizona and within the W.A. Franke Honors College. They’re joined by U of A Study Abroad Coordinator Sam Cox , who shares insights from his own international experiences and offers guidance on the wide range of global programs available to students. Franke Honors student Taylor Raney also joins...

In this episode of The Honors Lounge , we welcome a new host, Adelle Nkeze, a junior at the W.A. Franke Honors College. Adelle joins the team just in time for Family Weekend, bringing along Franke Honors senior Aruna Shrestha for a fun and thoughtful conversation about traditions, campus life, and what makes this annual event special for students and families alike. Aruna reflects on her Family We...

The conversation with Franke Dean John Pollard continues in this follow-up episode of The Honors Lounge . Our hosts share additional highlights from their interview with the dean, along with their own reflections on what stood out most. From extra stories to added insights, this episode offers a closer look at both Dean Pollard’s journey and the hosts’ takeaways from their time with him. 

In this episode of The Honors Lounge , our hosts sit down with W.A. Franke Honors College Franke Dean, Dr. John Pollard for a wide-ranging conversation. They dive into his background and career as an educator, explore some of his personal hobbies, including music and mountain biking, and even throw in a round of quickfire questions. From leadership insights to lighthearted moments, this episode is...

In the first episode of The Honors Lounge, meet the hosts and get a feel for what this podcast is all about. They talk through their own journeys at the University of Arizona, what it means to be a Franke Honors student, and how experiences can vary from year to year. This episode is all about helping you get familiar with the show and giving you an honest look at life in Honors—what to expect, wh...