Since graduation, I have worked as a legislative correspondent in the U.S. Senate advancing policy on matters related to the judiciary, criminal justice, gun violence prevention, ethics, and election reform. In this role, I have the privilege of regularly meeting with constituents from across the Commonwealth to discuss their legislative priorities, needs, and concerns.

Anthropology taught me to approach constituent concerns with a willingness to learn from their lived experiences, and in turn, challenge my own existing assumptions about policy and better develop my own worldview. This pushes me to harbor and value connectedness with all constituents, forces me to think critically about how to best represent a multitude of communities, and in turn, seek to meet the needs of all stakeholders in tandem with the imperative work of the Senate. Because of Anthropology, I not only carry with me a great appreciation for the undeniable role that the personal socialization and culture of the human person play in forming one’s values, but I have learned that, without reservation or bias, my ultimate responsibility is to advance the Commonwealth’s best interests with the open mindedness and sensitivity that’s necessary to ensure all Pennsylvanians feel heard.

At a time when it seems our country and government are uniquely divided, seeking connectedness and understanding our neighbor is a fundamentally anthropological goal inherent to my work. Thanks to my studies and the substantial professional investment the Department makes in every student, I am able to become a better public servant, and for that reason alone, studying Anthropology at Catholic University has made an indelible impact on my career in public service and my personal life.