I am a first-year student at American University earning an Interdisciplinary Degree in Communication, Legal Institutions, Economics, and Government (CLEG). I am a member of American University’s Scholars Program and I am participating in the School of Public Affairs Leadership Program as well. As a member of the SPA Leadership Program, as a part of the Environment and Sustainability issue group, I am studying fossil fuel divestment campaigns. As our research progresses, we will discover the potential viability of such a movement at American University. As a part of the AU Scholars program, my cohort is studying solutions to pollution issues in the DC area.

Last year, galvanized by the tragic shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas HS, a group of friends and I organized a day of lobbying at the Ohio Statehouse. Using a lobbying template I helped create, we brought 250 students to the Statehouse. This experience reinforced my desire to become involved in the political process, and being in Washington DC is sure to facilitate this process. My intended major, CLEG, will help me discover just how I want to become involved, whether through journalism, the law, or running for office.

In addition to my academic studies, I serve as the Student Government Beat Reporter for The Eagle, the on-campus newspaper, covering all major efforts and initiatives promoted by AU’s elected student representatives. Building on my role as Managing & Layout Editor and News Editor at my high school newspaper, I intend to use my new position to hone my journalistic skills. I hope to particularly improve my interviewing skills, a key skill for engaging in the political process.

Off campus, I enjoy exploring the city of DC with friends. DC has been my favorite city for years, and I love walking through the streets, particularly when I can catch snippets of political conversations from those I pass by.