Academic Exploration Fuels Global Ambition
Whether it has been enabling me to pursue my specific interests through Eckardt, countless trips to New York through the United Nations program, and internship opportunities, Lehigh is a school that will support your development.
College:
College of Arts & Sciences
Academics:
Major:
Political Science
Economics (College of Arts and Sciences)
Hometown:
Plymouth, MN
Activities:
Soaring Together Scholar, Eckardt Honors Program Scholar, Founder and Editor-in-Chief of Bridging Politics, Intern for Ryan Crosswell for Congress (PA-07), VP of Outreach for the World Affairs Club, member of College Democrats
Q: What is one thing you would want a prospective student to know about Lehigh?
A: You will have endless opportunities here at Lehigh. My first semester at Lehigh was often spent weighing my options for extracurricular activities, internships, etc. I still find it difficult to pick and choose from the sheer amount of opportunities Lehigh has to offer, in the best way possible.
Q: We’re a community of problem solvers—what is one specific challenge you’re passionate about contributing to solving?
A: I am passionate about youth civic engagement, and I have been contributing to the cause since I was 13 through the website and organization I founded, Bridging Politics. I have always cared deeply about politics, and in 2020, I decided that the best way I could help my peers understand current events was to build a website and write articles about politics that my friends could understand. My work actually started with the site, “All Teen Politics,” which evolved into a team of 15 students from across the US and abroad. I recently relaunched the website as Bridging Politics with the aim of moving beyond an audience of just teenagers. Bridging Politics works to amplify young voices and foster dialogue that helps young people understand today’s politics while helping current leaders understand the ideas shaping our future.
Q: How has the academic freedom, interdisciplinary approach to learning and faculty mentorship offered through the Eckardt Honors Program shaped your academic experience so far?
A: Being in the Eckardt Honors Program is enabling me to double major and graduate a year early, while still being able to study in Washington DC for a semester. I am able to take the exact courses I want without having to fulfill the standard distribution requirements. This means that I have been able to focus on my majors while still taking outside courses to enhance my education, just ones of my choosing. I also love the community of Eckardt, both with my specific cohort and the faculty advisors. I feel mentored by my peers in the program and through my advisor.
Q: As VP of Outreach for the World Affairs Club, how do you approach making global issues and international affairs feel accessible and relevant to students from a wide range of majors and interests?
A: We try to foster a community of students who care about global issues through engaging events. We have hosted a talk between professors discussing world affairs and hosted a trip to New York, both of which are just two examples of the draw we have for students across majors. On our trip to NYC, we met with the Canadian Ambassador to the UN and visited the International Labour Organization to discuss the future of work. These conversations revolved around economics, environmental issues, AI, and other interdisciplinary topics that students care about across majors and interests.
Q: Coming from Minnesota, what was it about Bethlehem, or the greater Lehigh Valley, that made this feel like the right place to spend your college career?
A: I’ve wanted to live on the East Coast for most of my life. It was important to me to attend a school close to New York or DC because of the career opportunities they hold. Lehigh was an optimal location, being close to New York while still living in a close-knit community.
Q: Where have you found support and mentorship at Lehigh? How has it shaped your experience so far?
A: I have built great relationships with my professors and upperclassmen, which have been integral to my support system here. I have been so impressed with the faculty at Lehigh and their genuine interest in knowing students. I have also found mentorship through older students who have shared opportunities and their experiences.
Q: As a Soaring Together scholar, how has being part of a cohort dedicated to gender equity shaped your experience and sense of community at Lehigh?
A: I feel grateful to attend Lehigh through the Soaring Together merit scholarship that celebrates coeducation at Lehigh through a cohort of students dedicated to gender equity. The Soaring Together program has been a source of support and community for me at Lehigh, especially as I connect with our advisor, other students, and the alumni who contribute.
Q: What is your favorite thing about Lehigh?
A: I have to go back to the opportunities that Lehigh has provided, both for me academically and for my career advancement. Whether it has been enabling me to pursue my specific interests through Eckardt, countless trips to New York through the United Nations program, and internship opportunities, Lehigh is a school that will support your development.
Q: If you had to sum up your Lehigh journey so far in three authentic-to-you words, what would they be?
A: Busy but balanced.
Q: Where is your study spot of choice on campus?
A: I love Linderman on days when I need absolute silence and minimal distractions. Otherwise, I love finding a classroom in BIB to study with my friends.
Q: What is your favorite food spot, either on campus or in SouthSide Bethlehem?