The Honors Lounge

Franke in Athletics

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 [https://arizonawildcats.com/sports/c-a-ts-life-skills-program]. They offer a unique behind-the-scenes perspective on the programs and support systems that help student-athletes succeed both on and off the field.  The conversation explores what goes into the life of a student-athlete beyond competition—from academic support and personal development to the resources that foster long-term success. They also reflect on their own involvement, the impact of working closely with athletes, and how these experiences have shaped their time at the university, while also discussing the excitement of March Madness and what it’s like to be part of the University of Arizona community during one of the most electric times of the year.  As always, the episode wraps up with some rapid-fire questions to get to know our guests a little better.

Detour

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 grade—or even a tough semester—doesn’t define your value as a student. Ben opens up about navigating uncertainty around his major, while Adelle shares how she unexpectedly found an interest in investment banking and business despite starting out on a pre-med path, eventually getting involved with the Eller College’s Wall Street Scholars Program [https://eller.arizona.edu/departments-research/schools-departments/finance/programs/undergraduate/wall-street]. Throughout the conversation, they emphasize trying new things, leaning into interdisciplinary learning, and seeing the university as an “oasis of knowledge.”  The episode wraps up with a winter-themed rapid-fire segment full of funny stories, skiing and sledding mishaps, and a classic debate: skiing or snowboarding?

Building Community

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 [https://frankehonors.arizona.edu/franke-honors-ambassadors/who-we-are] to the PATH Mentoring Program [https://frankehonors.arizona.edu/student-experience/path-mentoring] and the Wall Street Scholars Program [https://eller.arizona.edu/departments-research/schools-departments/finance/programs/undergraduate/wall-street]. Throughout the episode, Ben and Adelle discuss the value of interdisciplinary involvement, the importance of saying yes to new opportunities, and how trying unfamiliar activities can redefine your college path. They offer insight into a variety of organizations across campus, giving listeners a window into the many ways students can build community, develop leadership skills, and expand their horizons. The conversation wraps up with a round of lighthearted, rapid-fire questions, offering a fun glimpse into their personalities and the shared experiences that have defined their time at the U of A and Franke Honors.

Homecoming Recap at the U of A

In this episode of The Honors Lounge, our hosts dive into all things Homecoming with special guest Yazin Hindosh [https://www.linkedin.com/in/yazin-hindosh-25a0742a7/], 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 [https://alumni.arizona.edu/benefits-services/recent-alumni-students/bobcat-senior-honorary], one of the university’s most storied traditions.  The conversation explores the significance of Homecoming not only for students and alumni, but for the greater Tucson community. Yazin offers an inside look at what goes into planning the weeklong celebration, highlighting the Bobcats’ integral role in coordinating major events, including the lighting of “A” Mountain, the crowning of Homecoming royalty, and orchestrating the homecoming olympics.  The episode wraps up with a round of rapid-fire questions, giving listeners a chance to get to know Yazin beyond his campus involvements and leadership roles.

Living in the City of Gastronomy

In this episode of The Honors Lounge, our hosts dig into Tucson’s rich gastronomic scene with a special father-son duo: Felipe Garcia [https://science.arizona.edu/person/felipe-garcia], CEO of Visit Tucson [https://www.visittucson.org/], 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 [https://www.azregents.edu/node/2385].  Together, they bring a dynamic mix of professional insight and student perspective to a conversation that celebrates food, culture, and community. From highlighting some of their favorite local restaurants and hidden gems to exploring Tucson’s identity as a UNESCO City of Gastronomy [https://tucson.cityofgastronomy.org/], the Garcias share what makes the city’s culinary and cultural landscape so unique—both locally and globally.  You can also follow their culinary adventures on Instagram at @thehyggefoodie [https://www.instagram.com/thehyggefoodie/?hl=en], where they continue showcasing the flavors and stories that make Tucson a world-class food destination.