Howdy! My name is Audrey, and I am an upcoming sophomore. at GWU! I am currently studying political science with a focus on public policy and minoring in Spanish. I am originally from Texas but was drawn to going to school in D.C. due to all the amazing opportunities! In my free time I love watching youtube, reading, drawing, watching movies, and exploring D.C. with my friends.

Hometown

Tyler, Texas.

Major(s)

Political Science: Public Policy Focus

Minor(s)

Spanish

Clubs, organizations & involvement

- WRGW Radio - KOA - WPLSA

Describe your college experience

My transition to college was challenging at first. Like many first-year students, I was extremely homesick and found myself calling my mom several times a week during those first weeks. However, I made a conscious effort to step out of my comfort zone by introducing myself to people and getting involved on campus. Over time, I was able to find an incredible group of friends—many who turned out to be my neighbors and people living in my residence halls. Academically, adjusting to college-level coursework took time, but it was rewarding to learn from professors who are experts in their fields. One of the best decisions I made was joining the radio station (WRGW). It gave me a creative outlet, helped me get more involved, and introduced me to people who I would otherwise have never met. Looking back at my first year, I can pinpoint tons of amazing memories, crazy stories, inside jokes, things learned, and more, all of which I am grateful to have experienced.

Tip for future students

One tip that I would give to future students is to try not to compare your college journey to others. It can feel overwhelming to see classmates' accomplishments on linkedin or their exciting lives through social media, but don't let this hurt you. I would recommend taking things at your own pace and still push yourself as long as you are comfortable. Remember, comparison is the thief of joy.

Favorite class

My favorite class has been a special topics course in Comparative Politics called Violence in Latin America. My professor brought extensive real-world experience to the classroom and paired it with engaging readings, documentaries, podcasts, and other forms of media that made complex topics accessible and interesting—especially the assigned movies. Additionally, he connected course material to current events. The classroom environment was one of the best parts of the course. Everyone was genuinely passionate about the subject, which led to thoughtful discussions where students felt comfortable asking questions, sharing perspectives, and respectfully debating different viewpoints. By the end of the semester, I had learned far more than I expected—not only about violence, organized crime, migration, and political institutions in Latin America, but also about how history, economics, and public policy intersect to influence current events. The course challenged me to think more critically, strengthened my interest in comparative politics, and reinforced my passion for pursuing a career in public policy.

Career goals

After college, I plan to attend graduate school and get my masters in a field of public policy. My goal is to create effective policy solutions exploring the connections between conflict, climate change, and resource exploitation. Additionally, I would love to work at a place that fights for Human Rights and promotes peace.

Ideal way to spend a free night

My ideal free night starts with dinner with friends, preferably at a Thai restaurant. From there we either go to the movies, especially if it is discount movie night, or watch a show in one of the common spaces on campus. After this, we spend the rest of the night talking, playing games like trivia, and eating snacks.

High school or secondary school

All Saints Episcopal School, Tyler, TX.

Previous college

N​/​A

Favorite spot on campus

My favorite place to study on campus is the Gelman Library Study Carrels. I have a specific room that I always try to go to with an amazing view of the campus greenspace. I like this space since there are no distractions and since it feels like a cubicle in a way, which for some reason makes me more productive. But if I were to study with friends, I would go to the SEH since there are tons of spaces and since the building is verry modern.