I've always loved history. I wanted to become more of an expert while understanding how history affects the disparities of life today. I'm currently working towards graduate school鈥攕pecifically, law school. I'm working towards becoming an advocate.
I did not know much about St. Kate鈥檚. I really loved the message of educating women to lead and influence. I saw that being projected here, not only in classes, but in the kind of work environment they have. They didn't just talk about it. I stayed because I love the overall message and the people. I can see it in other students and in the kind of opportunities they have.
I was surprised by how supportive students are. One day during my first year, some people came knocking on my door. They said, 鈥極h, hi, we just wanted to say hi and meet you.鈥 Then we went around the whole building. That really helped connect us all. Just seeing how you're welcome here was really impactful for me and made me feel really comfortable, especially being from out of state and not knowing anybody from Minnesota. I felt that welcoming environment throughout my first year.
During my second year, I was invited by one of my professors to become part of the AMP (Assistantship Mentoring Program) program. This opportunity supported me money wise, too, as I had compensation. It wasn't like I had to negotiate, saying, 鈥榃ell, I love this job and I want to do something impactful, but I also have financial needs.鈥 I really appreciated being able to do both.
It was a great opportunity to apply my history and knowledge while at the same time, learn my own history. We researched racial covenants and disparities in Minnesota and how our past affected our future. I love our fighters. I want to be part of working towards advocating for housing rights, especially for homeowners of color.
I've grown in my education, but also in my leadership skills. Knowing there are moments when I need to be a follower, and other times when I need to be a leader. That's one of the big takeaways. How do you become that good ally and be supportive of others? And leading, how do I make sure I'm including everyone's voice, while also meeting the goals and needs of the community? Navigating ways of being both is really important.