Majors: Global Studies
Hometown: Oakland, NE
Year: Senior
Favorite book and why
"Unbowed" by Wangari Maathai. It is an incredible story of the first-ever African woman to win a Nobel Peace Prize, and it is impactful to read about the history and experiences during an influential time in Kenya’s history.
Favorite movie and why
Pride and Prejudice. I love how thought-provoking the movie is, and I enjoy a good romance movie.
Why did you select your major
After traveling to Kenya in 2021, I was inspired to change my major from Agricultural Education to Global Studies. My time in Kenya ignited a passion for learning about other cultures and making a difference for those in extreme poverty.
There are so many great classes within SGIS, but I would recommend a language course you are passionate about, for me that was Swahili through the Big Ten CourseShare. GLST/HRHA 350: Refugees, (Im)migrants and Displaced Persons in a Globalized World is another great course where we partnered with local leaders who are making a difference in our community of Nebraska.
Pick three things to be involved in during your time on campus that you are passionate about and be as involved as possible. These years will go by quickly, and it is a great time to build community and connections and have a structured place to gather a plethora of knowledge. You will never regret being a part of what you are most passionate about.
Global Studies is a great choice because each person can choose a specific region and two themes to hone their knowledge. I have a passion for Africa, so I was able to have a regional emphasis on Africa and the Middle East with themes in Human Rights and Global Resources and Environment. I love that I curated my degree to my interests and passions!
Extracurricular experiences
In 2021, I began an internship with The Hope Venture as the Student Sponsorship Intern. This experience has allowed me to travel to Kenya for the last three summers while interacting with health and education projects for people in extreme poverty. I am also a part of The Hope Venture Club where students pick a project to fundraise for and come together to learn more about extreme poverty around the world. I am a mentor in Nebraska Human Resources Institute (NHRI) Leadership Mentoring where I am partnered with a student in Lincoln Public Schools to develop leadership strengths, and in 2023 I served as a Tri-Chair. I chose each of these experiences because they have been instrumental in creating community on campus, forming connections, and developing my knowledge in the global studies realm.
Post-graduation plans
I will go full-time with The Hope Venture as their Student Coordinator, working with projects in Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, India, and Bangladesh.
