Majors: Political Science, Psychology
Minor: National Security Studies
Year in school: Sophomore
Hometown: Bakersfield, CA
Why did you select your majors and minor? Were there any experiences that convinced you to declare?
I am passionate about interdisciplinary collaboration, and I believe that the fields of Political Science and Psychology have much to learn from one another. I was drawn to UNL for many reasons, but its unique Biology, Psychology, and Politics emphasis under the
Political Science major intrigued me.
What is your favorite course you have taken from your programs and why?
My favorite course so far was Genetics, Brains, and Politics, instructed by Dr. John Hibbing. I also loved Brain and Behavior and the Neuroscience of Zombies taught by Dr. Jacquelyn Omelian. The complex interaction of our genetics and our environments is fascinating to me, and I love learning about the infinite complexity of the human brain.
Who have been some of your strongest mentors or role models here?
Maria Benes has been a great role model for me on campus. Maria is a Ph.D. candidate, and I worked on a UCARE project under her advising. She also invited me to join her human rights club, WYA, for which I now serve as the primary programming officer.
Do you have research experience (UCARE or other)? If so, please describe your project.:
I conducted research through the UCARE program the summer between
my freshman and sophomore year. I studied the Nebraska water governance system and interviewed over 50 governmental and non-governmental actors who play a role in the unique system here in the state. The project centered around globalization and how Nebraska's water policy informs that of many other states and even other countries.
What are you involved in on campus?
I am involved on campus through the Honors Program as an Honors Ambassador and Honors Peer Mentor. I am also a member of the Political Attitudes and Cognition (PAC) research lab. I serve as the Vice President of Chi Omega, and I am involved through ASUN as a member of the Committee for Fee Allocation. I also have the honor of being a member of the CAS Student Advisory Board.
