Why did you choose to attend UM?
I chose to come to UM for the Lott and Croft Institutes and the opportunities they offered me. Before choosing to come here, I fell in love with the people, the beauty of the campus, and the incredible professors I met.
When and how did you choose your major(s)/minor(s)?
I was originally planning on biology because I had an interest in the medical field, having a sister with extra needs that spent quite a bit of time in a doctor's office. My passions, however, were in the German language, history (especially European), and I love a healthy political debate. When I walked the tables at Fall Visit Day and found myself at the German table, I met a student in Croft which led me to then meeting a student in both Croft and Lott, and I was sold! Once I received admission to both of the programs, I knew I was in the right place.
What would you tell a high school student about your major?
I'm in a unique position as only a handful of students in both Lott and Croft, with the emphasis in German. Both programs are also unique! But both are entirely possible to navigate. For me, I've chosen my path in Croft to be International Governance and Policy, which pairs perfectly with my Public Policy Leadership program. The most important thing to know is that you are a part of a selective group of students that will be with you all through your time in the programs. Classes are smaller, you get to really know the professors and your fellow students, and you have so many opportunities to get involved from the very beginning. Take those opportunities on day one! You won't regret it!
Why is your department a special place?
Besides having smaller classes and cohorts, both bring in many speakers and host events to broaden our networking and skillsets. Because the programs are small, you can actually meet with and talk to those speakers, network with a lot of upper-level students, and get to know your professors. Plus, both have their own dedicated buildings where you can study, print documents and even grab a snack or coffee!
Can you tell me about a professor or a class you've taken that has had the most impact on you?
Dr. Holland was the very first professor I met at UM. He encouraged me to participate in the Sullivan Foundation Leadership Retreat during my freshman year, which inspired me to continue working toward learning how to apply my passion for advocacy to policy-making potential.
What do you hope to do after you graduate?
Initially, I intend to pursue Law School, with the hopes of working with the State Department or other government agencies.
What is one thing you wish you knew as an incoming freshman that you'd tell your past self?
It's not like it is in the movies!
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