Jonah Steinweh-Adler ‘25, psychology, journalism, and history, is driven by a deep curiosity about people and how they think. At URI, he explored this through his studies and international interests, including a semester abroad in Berlin that deepened his connection to his German heritage. His academic journey and global perspective have inspired future plans for law school and public policy. 

Why did you choose URI and the psychology, history, and journalism programs?URI offered the most flexibility when it came to choosing my path. I’ve always been fascinated with understanding what makes people tick and do the things they do. Naturally, I was led to psychology but discovered journalism, which I thought brought me closer to answering my questions. Then, I added history because I just loved it and wanted an excuse to be more of a nerd.

What is something special about these programs?
I am a journalism and history student partly because of the students in those programs. I will say, the history program has some of the smartest students and faculty I’ve interacted with. What is so incredible is that you can plop a three-page document in front of a history student, and they will pick apart 17 different meanings and interpretations. What is so great is that if you spend enough time with people who think this way, it rubs off on you!

What are your post-graduation plans?
I’m leaning towards law school. With my major and background I would love to go into public policy and law is the best way to go! I am thinking of two years away, either through the JET Program, Peace Corp, or DAAD scholarship. Waiting on some good news from these programs. They will definitely help me crystalize what my next direction will be.

What is your favorite memory at URI?
Joining the Middle Eastern Students Association my freshman year and going to an authentic Syrian restaurant with the club while listening to Arabic rap on the car ride. For me, this was the first time trying these new foods, hearing new language, and music. This is the type of stuff we come to college for. I have more understanding of that region and it makes me who I am today.

What is something you would tell your freshman-year self?
Major in German! (My last name, Steinweh-Adler is very german, and I am half German). I will be leaving uni with one semester abroad in Berlin and meine deutsch ist immer noch schlecht (my German is still bad!). I think the opportunities to be abroad through our ISD program are incredible and I would’ve told myself to look further into that.