Liberal Arts Major(s): History, Political Science
Minor: Global Security
Hometown: Lindenhurst, New York
Experience Time: Summer 2021

Give us a brief summary of your experience?

For the month of July, I studied abroad in Stockholm, Sweden. I took a course titled: "Political Extremism and the Threats to Democracy." We discussed Swedish and American politics. When I wasn’t in class, I was exploring the beautiful city and learning about Swedish culture and history.

How did this experience impact you academically?

I am writing my senior honors thesis on the Swedish Democrats, so this course allowed me to learn more information about this political party. We discussed why this nationalist and populist party was growing in Sweden. My class also met someone who worked for the party. All of this will help me write my thesis.

"Immersing myself in a different culture has expanded my world view, which will be beneficial in my future jobs."

How will this experience impact your career goals?

I want to work in either policy or intelligence work within the United States government. Immersing myself in a different culture has expanded my world view, which will be beneficial in my future jobs.

How has the College of the Liberal Arts helped you to find and/or succeed in this experience (e.g., adviser, faculty, staff, enrichment funds, etc.)?

The enrichment funds allowed me to explore Sweden outside of the classroom, which is very important. My thesis advisor gave me recommendations of where I should go while in Sweden. This helped me learn more about Swedish culture and history.

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

I knew I always wanted to study abroad, but the Paterno Fellows requirement forced me into actually doing it and I am glad it did.