As I reach the end of my sophomore year, I have begun to reflect on my two years here. I have accomplished a lot here in such a short time – it has all become a sort of blur. Facebook will often bring up memories of posts and photos, and I am reminded of a variety of things I have done. From singing in concerts to late night study sessions with friends from Haverford, I have done a lot here.

If you’ve read the “Get to know me!” section of my blog (which I highly recommend … because what’s better than knowing everything about me???), you know that I am a Political Science major. The Political Science major has recently become one of the top 5 majors here at Bryn Mawr, which has me very excited. How did I get here, though? How did a girl from a family of economics and finance majors find a disdain for economics, and a adoration for political science?

My friend took this photo of me as I went on a political science tangent – I was talking for a WHILE! (It’s hard not to with something you’re passionate about!)

It all started in high school, when in my sophomore year, I managed to sneak into a Constitutional Law class that was for juniors and seniors only. I LOVED that class. I found a love for the judicial process, reading Supreme Court decisions, political theory, and so much more.

I decided to take an AP US Government and Politics class my junior year. I wanted more, and a whole year’s worth rather than a semester. AP Gov was an amazing class – I loved the curriculum, the debates. My teacher, Mr. Muro, did an incredible job of teaching that class. I found my love of politics there.

I took this photo while I was in Japan! It may not seem like it, but Pokemon actually has great political ramifications internationally! That’s my Political Science nerd talking!

My senior year, however, I decided I would try to follow in the family footsteps rather than follow my young, blooming passion for politics. I decided I would take AP Microeconomics and Macroeconomics. My family, meaning my mother, father and older brother are all incredibly well versed in this field, and I was tired of sitting at the dinner table not understanding any of the conversations that were being held. Every single night, a news story would be brought up and somehow everyone but me would be able to go off on long, but eloquent, tangents of how the “markets this” and “the stocks that.”

I quickly learned that economics was not my forte. I tried my absolute hardest, but it just was not clicking. But just because the class was difficult, it doesn’t mean that it can’t be enjoyed! In my case, however, I could not stand the material. I found no joy in learning about marginal cost or deadweight loss. They say money makes the world go ‘round? It certainly made my head spin.

So, after a full year of pure economic torture, I was able to sign up for an introductory political science class at Bryn Mawr my first semester here: “Introduction to Comparative Politics.” Taught by Professor Sofia Fenner, it quickly became the highlight of my week. And, I was finding that I had a knack for political science. I was understanding the material quickly, and I enjoyed the analysis I could do and writing papers about countries and governments. Who EVER enjoys writing papers? Me, apparently. I could not get enough.

I LOVED writing this paper about agenda-setting in late night comedy!

The next semester, I took another one of Professor Fenner’s classes: “Politics of the Modern Middle East and North Africa.” As if I could not love political science more, that class had me completely enamored. My first semester inklings were being confirmed: this might be the path for me.

Here at Bryn Mawr, you do not have to declare your major until your sophomore year. So, I wanted to be sure by taking one more political science class. It was with Professor Daniller, called “Democracy, Media and Politics.” It was my first night class, and I absolutely loved it. (The class is running again next semester – I highly recommend it!) After a little bit, I emailed Professor Fenner telling her I was ready to declare my political science major. This semester, I am back in Professor Fenner’s classroom in “Islam and Politics.” It is my first 300-level political science course, and I am loving the readings and discussions we have had.

I screenshotted this from a conversation I had with another political science major about Japan – we are such nerds, I know ^_^

During winter break, I was able to put my political science love and put it to work: I was able to shadow an alumna at her place of work in Washington, D.C. It was an incredible experience – I truly learned so much while I was there. It confirmed for me that I want to work for the government and be in D.C. If not D.C., I would love to be a foreign service officer and work for my country abroad.

Here’s me at Union Station, about to return home from my externship!

It’s been a rather straightforward road to my major. Most of my self-discovery happened in high school. It is a huge benefit that Bryn Mawr does not require you to declare your major until the end of your sophomore year – you’re able to explore and try out many things. One of my friends came in as someone on the Pre-Med track, and now is completely in love with the Growth and Structure Cities department and is majoring in that, instead. With our allowance to explore, here at Bryn Mawr, you’re able to find your true passion. (Or passions! Hence my Global Asian Studies minor.)

So, Mom, Dad, and Robert: I’m sorry that I cannot stand economics or anything to do with finance. I tried my hardest, I promise. I’ll let you all take care of that side of things. (I actually found my old economics notebook while I was home for winter break. I promptly threw it out.)

There’s nothing better than some tea, your agenda, and writing some papers – in my opinion! (My hand was totally fine ^_^)

This week’s music recommendation comes from my studying playlist, which is what I put on when I’m doing readings for all of my classes. It is called “Bluetoothpaste” by halfpastseven.  I hope this week brings you joy, bliss, and plenty of opportunity to pursue your passions.