Jewish Aggie of the WEEK Presents…
Franceska Flax
What is your name?
Franceska Flax
What is your major and why did you decide to pursue such a degree?
Animal Science with a certificate in Equine Science, because I have been riding horses and working with them for over 17 years, might as well get paid to do it.
Why did you choose Texas A&M?
For their excellent animal science program. Aggieland is also the best place to be!
What is your favorite book? Why?
I’ve read way too many to choose one favorite book. My favorite authors are Jane Austen, J.R. Tolkein and J.K. Rowling because their use of language is illuminating, they transport you to unknown places or worlds with such beautiful diction and imagery, and you can’t help but fall in love with their characters. I find their books stimulating for the mind and soul.
Where are you from?
Born in London, UK but I grew up in Rancho Mirage, CA.
Where did you go to high school?
Palm Desert High School
What is your favorite Jewish food?
Chaya Posner’s chulent
What is your favorite food?
Spaghetti
What is your favorite drink?
Silver Patron….I mean tea.
Favorite Jewish memory? Why?
I don’t have a particular “There was this one time when…”. My favorite part of growing up Jewish was the high holidays because we would dress our very best and go to a fancy hotel for services which would create this massive austere environment. It was intoxicating; I was so overwhelmed by emotion and the music from the prayers, and the best part getting to go under my Tati’s tallit.
Have you ever traveled outside of the United States? If so, where? Which place was your favorite? For what reason?
I was born outside of the US. I’ve been to England, France, Italy, Holland, Spain, Argentina, Chile, Mexico, Canada, and Australia. My favorite was Australia though Italy is a close second. I went with my high school; a part of the group called Chamber Singers. We performed there and got to explore Sydney and Cairns. It was so beautiful and exotic I loved every minute of it.
Have you ever been to Israel? If so, what was the most moving/amazing/inspirational experience you had?
Never been, hopefully next summer.
If you could go anywhere in the world where would you go?
I would go to Hawaii.
If you had a message for the freshmen what would it be?
Don’t ever get down hearted about not getting anything right the first time, there’s a reason for EVERYTHING.
If you could start university again what would you do differently?
Wish I had started with a good major, shouldn’t have made my decision on university about getting as far away from home as possible.
What do you love most about being an Aggie? WHOOP!
EVERYTHING! I love the school, Aggieland, the traditions, and what it means to be an Aggie. This is a family we are so much more then fellow alumni.
What is your favorite class at university? Who teaches the class?
My favorite class is Ag Economics. Dr. Oral Capps teaches the class. He is a genius, never thought I could ever possibly enjoy econ.
What is your favorite color (think the whole Crayola color scheme)?
Blue sapphire
Do you have any older or younger siblings?
Nope
Do you have any animals? Can they do any neat tricks?
I have a german shepherd that will lick you to death, a boxer dog who talks back when being yelled at, a horse who gives kisses when you ask “kiss, kiss” and tap your lips, and then a bunny whom uses a litter box and is really fluffy.
What has been your favorite Jewish activity to date this past semester?
Keeping the laws of a yom tov during the high holidays.
Do you prefer to read the book or see the movie?
READ THE BOOK.
What is your favorite movie?
The Lord of the Rings trilogy, the first Harry Potter, and the Italian film “Life is Beautiful”.
In your spare time what do you like to do?
Read, ride horses, and watch Greys Anatomy.
What was your favorite vacation?
Marbella, Spain. It was a week and a half of sunshine, beaches, swimming, tanning, clubbing, and playing tennis.
Do you prefer living on campus or off campus? What would you recommend to freshmen?
Off campus. I hated living in a box trapped. I say if you want the full college experience go for it but I’ll pass.
If you could have one wish for anything in the world what would it be?
No debts or student loans.
What do you love about Jewish life on campus?
It is my home away from home. I feel connected, I know I’m never alone and I don’t have to be afraid of starving to death!