Hometown: Long Island, New York

University/School: NYU

Major: Politics

Class: 2012

Position at LPD: Event Coordinator’s Assistant

Related Interests: Languages, travel, photography, reading, writing, cycling

What does "Dialogue" mean to you?

To me, "dialogue" means to create a place where thoughts and ideas are given free range to interact with one another in order to produce a certain sense of understanding about a person, a group of people, a nation, or more generally, an issue.

What brought you to LPD?

I was brought to LPD through studying abroad with NYU. I wanted to contribute to La Pietra in some way while I was in Florence, and LPD not only seemed the most appropriate, but also the most worthwhile.

What did you learn through your experience with LPD?

Through working for LPD, I acquired an amazing set of skills that are unique to working abroad. I learned how to interact with people from all different backgrounds, and I learned the importance of dialogue, and creating places where peoples’ thoughts and ideas could meet.

With distance, what did you gain from your study abroad experience?

From studying abroad, I gained an understanding of how a different culture lives, how this different culture fits into the world, and I also gained an extremely important understanding of the role that I play in this world as a global citizen. I was also able to pick up a new language, which has proven to be extremely beneficial for me in regards to connecting with people cross-culturally.

What are you doing now?

I am currently in my final year of university, and writing a politics honors thesis on the determinants of attitudes toward homelessness. I am also finishing up various language courses, and sitting on a few executive boards of different NYU organizations.

What are your plans for the future?

Moving forward, I plan to further my global experiences for a year before applying for the United Nations’ Young Professional Program.