Ann Monk
Connecticut College
Ann Monk, a senior at Connecticut College, is committed to advancing her knowledge of educational systems, cultures, and government policies across many nations. Ann’s impressive path began in childhood when she lived and attended public school in Spain. This early experience ignited her interest in global education and inequality. She is the founding president of the Student Refugee Alliance, and go-to person for information about refugee-related opportunities and initiatives, both in the greater New London region and abroad.
Personal Statement
I dropped out of school during my freshman year of high school, but I was fortunate to have mentors in my life who supported me and exposed me to the value of education. My passion for education continued during my gap year, when I volunteered as a teacher in India and Guatemala. I feel incredibly grateful to have been given a second chance, and this drives my passion to support those who are struggling in school or lack access to education.
At Connecticut College, I focus my passion on education opportunities for refugees and immigrants, as they are some of the most disadvantaged students in my community. I founded the Student Refugee Alliance and am a representative on the Refugee Relief and Education Committee. Both engage Conn students with refugee resettlement organizations in the local community by tutoring children, fundraising, and raising awareness about refugee issues. Additionally, I volunteer with the organization Paper Airplanes, providing tutoring opportunities to refugees via Skype.
As Mother Teresa said, “I alone cannot change the world, but I can cast a stone across the waters to create many ripples.” My animating aspiration is to inspire my students to help others and send forth more ripples.
