I am a senior working towards a double major in Women and Gender Studies and English. I was drawn to Women and Gender Studies because I have always been interested in social structures and why some people have greater power then others. This major has broaden my understanding of gender, sexuality, and power dynamics. It has challenged many of my core beliefs and has made me a more conscious and aware person.
Outside of class, I am a Program Leader for Help to Heal. We volunteer at Lydia's House, a local domestic violence shelter, where we care for young children and tutor. I am also part of One in Four, a peer education group on campus that works to create a dialogue on campus about rape and sexual assault. Working in this group allowed me to form the first White Ribbon Campaign in St. Louis, an all-male led effort to end violence against women. The White Ribbon Campaign shows that men care about female-directed violence, an issue that is oftentimes coded as striclty a "female problem." This major ispired me to take action and try to create change in the community.
Women and Gender classes may challenge you, but after taking them you will see the effects of your newfound knowlege everywhere. Everything is gendered and full of meanings that exist under the radar. This major will allow you to better understand yourself and the world around you.
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