Liberal Arts Major(s): Criminology, International Politics
Minors: Spanish, Global Security
Hometown: Waltham, Massachsetts

What was the best part of your experience?

It was my first time leaving the country, and I did it alone. It was a short trip during Spring Break, so if I was uncomfortable or didn't like it, I knew it would be over soon, but that wasn't the case. The people were so nice and I made friends quickly and easily. We were all there together for a few days so we all wanted to get the most out of the trip that was possible.

Going to Amsterdam changed what I think I want to study and what I want to do after school

How did this experience impact you academically?

I actually decided to add a Criminology major because of the trip. I was thinking about it beforehand, but after studying it there and in my class, I found it very interesting and decided to study it more. I also changed my other major from Political Science to International Politics because I found an interest in how other countries run their governments abroad also.

How will this experience impact your career goals?

Going to Amsterdam changed what I think I want to study and what I want to do after school. After I graduate from PSU and then whatever I end up doing after, I do know I want to work abroad or with a program that I can go abroad for. I want to travel the world helping people, but I am just not sure how I will do that yet.

How has the Paterno Fellows Program had an impact on this experience?

While I am only an aspiring Paterno Fellow, this program is why I took CRIM 197 in the first place, and after I was enrolled I was offered the embedded program with it.