2021 Award: Jefferson Scholarship
Major: Mathematics and Political Science
Minor: Religious Studies
Hometown: Salt Lake City, UT
Extracurricular activities: I am currently working in the Gonzaga Office of Sustainability as the Real Food Calculator Coordinator, as I am passionate about local food. As a remote student, it has been challenging to find ways to be involved, but, through my work at the office of sustainability, I feel truly connected to the GU campus. In my free time, I enjoy spending time outdoors hiking, skiing, and swimming. When I get to GU, I plan to continue playing violin in an instrumental ensemble and becoming involved in public service.
More about Naomi
I’m from Salt Lake City, Utah, and love being actively involved in my community in the outdoors. This remote year has allowed me to take advantage of remote learning and a significant number of powder days in the Utah mountains.
Future plans or career aspirations:
During my time at GU, I plan to spend a year studying abroad, hopefully in the Middle East and Washington, D.C. As far as future career aspirations go, I plan to extend my knowledge of both math and political science to a post-graduation service year in the Peace Corps or similar organization. My ultimate career goal is to attend graduate school and pursue a career in politics.
How has your major contributed to your professional or personal development?
I’ve always had an interest in politics. Political science has taught me to respect other peoples’ opinions and try to come to a common consensus on disagreements. This interest in politics gave me the opportunity to work as an intern with the Utah Democratic Party, where I learned about engaging different constituencies and working together to solve problems.
What has been your proudest or most significant accomplishment during your Gonzaga career?
I haven’t been at Gonzaga, for long, but during my time so far, some of the most significant accomplishments I’ve had have been being selected as a recipient of the Myrtle Woldson scholarship, as well as being able to grown personally and professionally in my work with the Office of Sustainability. Being selected as a recipient of the Jefferson Scholarship is also one of my proudest accomplishments at GU.