Majors: English and Writing & Rhetoric
Minor: French
Hometown: Warwick, RI

What makes the College of Arts and Sciences at URI unique?
The College of Arts and Sciences is unique because there’s such flexibility when it comes to courses and subjects of study. I’ve taken classes on Buddhism, discussed the ways in which we perform identity, and studied modern French literature, all within the umbrella of Arts and Sciences. This breadth and diversity of topics has made my college career so much more engaging and fulfilling. 

What accomplishments and/or activities are you most proud of doing while at URI?
While at URI, I have had the opportunity to hold several leadership positions. For two years, I’ve served on the executive board for the URI Tour Guide team first as the Recruitment Coordinator and then as the External Relations Coordinator. I’ve learned so much about responsibility, leadership, and communication through these roles. I’ve absolutely loved working with prospective students and families to welcome them to URI! Additionally, I’m proud of my involvement with the 193 Degree Coffeehouse. This non-profit, student-run coffee house has become such an open space for art in all forms: visual, written, musical, even latte art. I’m proud of the team we have at the coffeehouse and the ways in which we’ve made it a safe, inclusive, and expressive space for everyone. 

What research projects, internships, and/or study abroad programs did you participate in at URI? How did they enhance your education? 
In summer 2018, I had the opportunity to study abroad in Dublin, Ireland. While in Ireland, I did an internship with a publishing company called Literature Ireland. Literature Ireland is responsible for taking Irish writing and translating it into over 60 languages. I got to attend the Dublin Literary Awards, work on the International Frankfurt Book Fest, and meet writers and publishers from all over the world. I had the opportunity to apply everything I’ve learned in the classroom to a real-world situation. I learned so much about the ins and outs of publishing. This program was also a lesson in independence, as I was a young woman traveling alone to Edinburgh, Cannes, Paris, and London. 

What do you value about your liberal arts education? 
I value being part of a community that emphasizes critical thinking and interdisciplinary learning. I’ve always felt encouraged and supported by the professors and faculty, and have found myself branching out in ways I never would have imagined. Understanding that all learning is a beautiful process, and that we are all more similar than different, has been my biggest takeaway from my liberal arts education here at URI.