From the moment I learned about the Integrated Social Sciences program at the University of Washington, I knew it was perfect for me. The program’s interdisciplinary academic focus built upon my interest in Sociology and Communications and fed my passion for deep introspection and my desire to expand my understanding of the dynamic and complex social world around me.  I knew that the program would challenge me academically, but I wasn’t prepared for the immense personal growth that I would experience as well. The ISS program has made me a more conscientious and compassionate citizen of the world while simultaneously helping me to build a repertoire of transferable skills that will help me to succeed in future academic and professional settings.

Since deciding to pursue a college degree, I have worked tirelessly to grow as a student. Thanks to the ISS program’s robust emphasis on academic research, I have been able to refine my ability to analyze and interpret important research to create thoughtful and well-researched essays. The communications courses I took contributed greatly to my ability to express important thoughts and ideas to my essay audience and have improved my effectiveness and connection to others in everyday interpersonal interactions. The rich interdisciplinary coursework showed me the interrelated and interconnected nature of the systems we find in our local and global societies, ecologies, and economies. Because of the breadth of knowledge I’ve gained through the ISS program, I can consider nuanced and difficult issues from many perspectives and respond more compassionately and carefully. This work has made me more aware of my privilege and responsibility to protect and create opportunities for inclusivity and equitable outcomes for everyone.

The material covered across the ISS courses is incredibly relevant to the issues we experience in society today. Because of this, I always felt compelled to show up and do my best work to honor the importance of the issues, and to honor the incredible course instructors who have made educating others about these important issues their life’s work. It took an extraordinary amount of determination and hard work to perform at the level I wanted to in this program. I would not have been able to achieve the success I have if it weren’t for my dedication to my organization and time management habits. To date, I have made the ISS Director’s List four times and have achieved a 3.86 cumulative GPA. Due to my high cumulative GPA, I will graduate with Highest Distinction in June 2023. My grit and ability to persevere through difficult coursework and life experiences are evident in my performance outcomes in the ISS program and beyond.

As a graduate of the Integrate Social Sciences program, I feel prepared to take on any professional and personal challenges that lie ahead. This rigorous program challenged me in ways I never imagined and pushed me beyond what I believed was possible. I leave this program with a new sense of purpose and drive, and a stronger confidence in my ability to achieve my goals.