Question: What college or university did you attend after SAAS (or what did you pursue instead?) What did you major in? Did you get other degrees?
Answer: I went to Western Washington University and majored in Political Science with a focus on public policy. I don't have an advanced degree yet, but I'm planning on getting a MPA within the next five years.
Q: What unique experiences have you had since leaving SAAS? Trips, internships, jobs, etc.
A: I was fortunate enough to figure out what I wanted to do pretty early on. I spent most of college working and doing internships. I was a research assistant for the center for international studies for three years, and researched ways to bring international funding to Western. I also interned for two Senators and worked on city council race in Bellingham.
Q: What are your favorite memories from SAAS? What programs, teams, extracurriculars were you involved in while at SAAS? Who were your most influential teachers at SAAS?
A: My favorite memory by far is going on the Zambia trip! That trip definitely shaped the way I see the world and taught me how to be a global citizen. I really enjoyed the Seattle challenge as well. I did vocal ensemble all through high school. As for influential teachers I really loved having April DeNono and Mark Hoover.
Q: Where are you now and what do you do? Where do you see yourself in 10 years? How did SAAS help prepare you for your job today?
A: Currently, I'm the Executive Legislative Assistant to the Speaker of the House. I live in Olympia during the legislative session and spend the rest of the year in Seattle. In ten years I hope to still be working for the government in some capacity. Either at the Legislature or doing non-profit work. So much of my job is about having great interpersonal skills. SAAS does a great job helping young people find their voice. I also think SAAS helped me hone in my analytical skills.