Her Story
About Barbara
I'm currently in my second year at the University of Florida, where I'm majoring in political science with a minor in nonprofit management. I transferred here last August after spending time at community college. My passion for political science started with my middle school teacher and really took off during my sophomore year of high school with my AP World History teacher. From there, I developed a deep interest in learning more about governments, systems, and international institutions, which led me to pursue this path in college. This summer, I'll be interning in DC, which I'm really excited about. Looking ahead, I'm considering several career paths including international law, working at the Organization of American States with a Latin American focus on policy and trade, or going into consulting and event planning. I'm particularly interested in event planning for galas. I'm still exploring exactly what path I want to follow, but I see myself working in a variety of different career fields. On campus, I'm very involved in the Alexander Hamilton Society, where I dedicate most of my efforts. Through this organization, I participate in events that educate students on foreign policy, geoeconomics, and international law, which aligns with my future career interests. I'm also a member of Kappa Alpha Pi, a pre-legal honor society and professional fraternity that focuses on legal aid and advising students on legal career paths and government. Additionally, I'm involved with Catholic Gators, where I serve on the social committee helping to plan events like formals each semester, field days with basketball and tennis, and other activities for Catholic students and anyone interested in Catholicism. Beyond campus, I volunteer at St. Francis House, a nonprofit homeless shelter for families here in Gainesville. Since February, I've been volunteering on Saturdays, doing activities with the kids like playing outside and drawing, and also helping prepare meals.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Barbara
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to several key factors. First, my faith plays a central role - this past Easter, I just became confirmed as a Catholic adult in the church, and I've been focusing more on my spiritual side. When it comes to academics, I really try to go to office hours and ask questions. I know that sometimes it may be difficult or daunting for me to raise my hand in class, so if I think of a question, I'll write it down and go to office hours. Trying to build that professional relationship outside of the classroom is really important and is a reason why I attribute my success. I'd also say community is crucial. Being a new student, since I transferred from my community college to UF, it was a very different environment. Seeking friendships with people who want to grow with me and are also interested in the things I am has really helped with studying and just building friendships in general.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best advice I've received is not being afraid to speak up, even in situations where there's a power imbalance or power difference. I've seen this many times - as a student, you may be uncomfortable telling a professor that they did something wrong, but being able to correct them is something powerful in itself. I've been in that situation before. It may be scary to tell them, but when they acknowledge their mistake, it's better for you in the long term.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would tell them: Don't be afraid of asking questions. Try to ask somebody that they know, or ask their professors or teachers if they're a high school student, what made you get into your career and what options are available. I'd say, to add on to that, explore different career fields. I know at least for me, I didn't know what existed except for most political science majors - it's being a lawyer or being a legislator, a senator, or something along those lines. I didn't know that there was consulting, or event planning, or political campaigning. So I'd say just be open and go to as many events as you can.
04What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
For my personal life, I'd say of course it would be my faith. I try to go to church on a daily basis, going every Sunday. Another value I have is patience, especially when it comes to thinking about long-term success. I know that when I transferred, it was a bit of a complicated process, which really made me think and be patient about the things that I am working towards. So I'd say that's one of my values, and I'd also say perseverance.
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