What is your favorite memory from your time as an SNF Ithaca Student Leader so far?

I really enjoyed the beginning-of-year retreat we all went on, as it gave me a much better sense of who I would be working with for the next academic year, and I made some great friends.

What challenges have you overcome since joining this program?

Not to say I was a particularly shy person before joining, but I think I was hesitant in actively seeking out conflicting viewpoints and helping to bridge them. That conflict resolution piece is something I was lacking before, and I think through my experience as an SNF Ithaca Student Leader, I have become much more able to mediate conflict.

What do you plan to do after you graduate?

I plan to go into environmental consulting, particularly focused on energy and the grid. Still figuring out exactly how I want to help the US become more efficient, either through law or policy. 

How has the SNF Ithaca Initiative helped you become a more effective and engaged citizen?

I have become much more confident in speaking to different people with different perspectives about nuanced issues that affect everyone. Similarly, I feel that I can now find the connections in conversations to help build political gaps in speaking with different groups of people. 

What advice do you have for future students who want to grow as leaders and make a meaningful impact?

It's corny, but any journey begins with the first step. Don't be scared to take a chance and talk to new people, and really never be scared you'll mess things up. More likely than not, just your presence or effort makes a better situation than if you were too scared to even join the conversation.