Sophie Khanna '23
I learned so much from the district office manager and realized how much the congress members do for their constituents.
Read about Sophie's experience as a Congressional district office intern, her decision to transfer to 魅影直播, and more.
Why did you chose to major in political science?
In my last years of high school I began to notice how each part of the political system affected current daily life and I became engaged and curious about what impact citizens have on political outcomes. I didn鈥檛 realize I was going to study political science until I took a human rights course and incarceration class at Bennington College (where I transferred from) and realized how passionate I felt about the subject. Even if it sounds cheesy, I have always felt a calling to help people and give back and political science is my avenue for this. Before that class, I was hoping to study poetry or journalism, and maybe one day I will tie all the work together, but for now I find political science both heartbreaking and empowering. I would not have felt this passionate about it without great professors like and Professor Oh and Professor Schlosser.
What unique opportunities have come out of majoring in political science?
I was fortunate to intern at my congressman鈥檚 district office in the summer and fall of 2020. This experience really cemented what work I wanted to do in the area. I learned so much from the district office manager and realized how much the congress members do for their constituents. I decided to take the fall term off from junior year to pursue this interest and continue the work I was doing in the summer. With that time, I was also able to engage more in the 2020 election process and become a poll worker and volunteer for a deep canvassing organization. Through these experiences, I found my passion. This past summer I was a democracy fellow with Representative Jamie 搁补蝉办颈苍鈥檚 democratic congressional campaign committee program. Each experience is so different and has given me the opportunity to figure out what role I play.
What made you chose to attend Bryn Mawr?
I funnily enough toured Bryn Mawr a total of three times before actually attending. My mother is an alum and my parents were very keen on me attending but I questioned the women鈥檚 college aspect a lot. I ended up at Bennington College for my first year of college and realized it just wasn't the right fit. I applied to two different programs for transferring and toured Bryn Mawr, yet another time, for an admitted transfer students day. During that last tour I finally was able to see myself at Bryn Mawr. I met with political science students and even the track coach. I had an open mind this time and looked at the class offerings for the fall and made my decision.
What do you plan to do once you graduate Bryn Mawr?
I am hoping to work for a member of Congress or a political advocacy nonprofit. I鈥檓 very interested in voting rights and mass incarceration and hope these interests will line up with the work I find.