Current Location: Washington, D.C.
Hometown: Chicago, IL
UIS Degree: B.A. 2014 (Global Studies)
Other Degree: M.A. 2016, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Current Position: Executive Director, First Trip Inc. and Intern Manager at Center for Strategic and International Studies.
Career Highlights
“Living and working in our nation’s capital has been such a great experience! Aside from being a wonderful place for hanging out with friends and cultural exploration, D.C. also serves as headquarters for countless non-profits and inter-governmental organizations. This makes the District perfect for young professionals and interns looking to launch their careers in business, journalism, government, and international affairs.”
Memories of SSU/UIS
“As a first generation college student at UIS, I participated in the Necessary Steps mentoring program during my freshman and sophomore years. Some of my fondest memories as a member involved studying and socializing with other Necessary Steps students. Initially, we were all nervous about the transition from high school to college life and the many responsibilities that came along with it. Over time, things gradually got easier and we all became more involved in campus activities, such as Springfest and Late-Night events. Living and studying together on the Necessary Steps wing of FRH allowed us to develop valuable friendships that still last today!”
How did UIS change or prepare you?
“My undergraduate career at UIS played a significant role in helping me to realize my academic and professional goals. The Global Studies faculty in particular helped nurture my passion for international studies and my decision to pursue graduate school. UIS provided me my first opportunity to study abroad where I participated in a short-term cultural immersion program in Cuzco, Peru. I enjoyed the experience so much that I decided to study abroad again, this time for an entire semester in Colima, Mexico. Since graduating from UIS, I have traveled to 10 additional countries throughout Latin America. The international experience I gained in the past few years proved beneficial in making me more competitive in the job market.”
Interesting Fact
“Most people are unaware of my love for a special type of Korean folk opera known as P’Ansori. It is an ancient traditional vocal art involving a singer (story teller) and sporadic drumming. One YouTube search is all it takes to raise some eyebrows in complete fascination!”