Major: Political Science Major, Public Health Special Concentration, Human Rights Minor

I spent my spring semester of 2026 at the University of Cambridge. Originally from New Mexico and having never visited Europe before, I absolutely loved my experience! I took courses in International Security and The Politics of Conflict and Peace, and even got to write a dissertation on how informal governance systems shape Rohingya women’s protection and empowerment in refugee camps in Bangladesh. Cambridge’s intimate academic setting allowed me to really get to know and work with my supervisors, while life outside school gave me plenty of opportunities to get involved. I joined Pembroke’s rowing team, attended formal dinners (dressed up in gowns like a Harry Potter movie), and traveled throughout the UK and Europe, including to Albania, Paris, Hungary, and the Seven Sisters Cliffs. I also traveled to The Gambia this past summer with the Global Columbia Collaboratory, which was another incredible experience. I learned so much from the local NGO partners we worked with, including CETAG and the Gunjur Project Association. I loved getting to engage with the community in so many different ways, from helping at a health clinic to working with students on repurposing ghost fishing nets. Both experiences gave me the chance to learn from perspectives very different from my own, and I’m so grateful for all the amazing people, places, and memories I got to take home with me!