Hey! My name is Jenna and I am a second year at the University of Virginia intending to double major in economics and government, and minor in psychology. Some of my hobbies include playing soccer, playing guitar and piano, and goofing off with my dog. At UVA, I am involved in a few organizations, including cultural and religious groups, Intramural teams, business clubs, and more. I'm excited to share my experiences with you and hear your thoughts​/​concerns about UVA!

Hometown

Falls Church, Virginia

Major(s)

Economics, Government

Minor(s)

Psychology

Clubs, organizations & involvement

Muslim Student Association, Muslim Institute for Leadership and Empowerment, FBLA, Honor sub-committee, Arab Student Organization, Intramural Soccer and Volleyball, Intramural Referee, Phi Alpha Delta (Pre-Law Professional Fraternity).

Describe your college experience

I was really lucky to know people coming into college. A lot of people from my area come to UVA so it was good seeing familiar faces, even if we weren't close. I come from a very close knit family, so adjusting to leaving home, and being surrounded by so many people with different lifestyles was an adjustment, but going through that process with my friends made adjusting so much easier. Finding my place at UVA was a process, but with the help of the resilient student class, joining clubs and activities, and seeking help when needed, I can confidently say that I have loved my first year here.

Tip for future students

Some things that I would have wanted to hear before coming to UVA are: it's okay to be alone sometimes and not constantly have something to do or people to be around. I recently had a conversation with my friend about this, and I've realized that being alone on certain occasions, going to events without friends, and having downtime doesn't mean that you aren't doing enough or that you aren't cared about. It's a part of life away from our parents, and we have to shift our perspective to enjoy it. I would have also wanted to hear that grades aren't everything and that there is more to college than just academics. I also would have wanted to know about clubs that help students struggling in certain classes, like the ECON club.

Favorite class

My favorite class is definitley the Resilient Student. I took this class in my first semester, and I can't imagine what my first year would have looked like without it. Firstly, the lessons we learn about time management, resilience, growth mindset, and setting healthy habits helped me adjust to the workload and freedom college offers. Along with these lessons, I would say my community discussion group made the most impact on me. We became really close, supporting and uplifting each other through our ups and downs, and became a safe space. I learned so much about relationships, active listening, healthy communication, and putting yourself in uncomfortable situations to grow.

Career goals

After college, I hope to go to law school and become a family lawyer. After seeing so many broken families in my community, I want to fight for families and children's rights to live normal, healthy lives with healthy relationships. I am also really interested in real estate and the stock market, so hopefully I will own a few properties and investments that supplement my career in law.

Ideal way to spend a free night

There are so many ways I could spend a free night. Top 3 would be staying up stargazing with my friends outside of our dorms, curling up with some hot cocoa and watching a romcom in bed, or facetiming my friends and family back home.

High school or secondary school

Justice High School