Personal Statement

My interest in the Newman Civic Fellowship results from my passion and concern regarding social justice issues facing America, particularly housing inequalities. The Fellowship provides an opportunity to extend my knowledge about social justice, and to collaborate with others who feel as strongly as I do about fighting poverty and reducing disparity. My high school youth group at Old Saint Patrick's Church in Chicago allowed me the opportunity to participate in service trips to help neighborhoods in need in Washington, D.C., Rochester, New York, and New Orleans, and introduced me to Habitat for Humanity. After volunteering with numerous Habitat affiliates, I started a campus chapter at Saint Mary's. My goal was to show my classmates how they could contribute to a support system for a family in need of quality housing. Saint Mary's Justice Education program has further fueled my passion for advocacy and action. Serving as a Newman Civic Fellow solidifies my commitment to reducing social injustices in my community and deepens my understanding of practical prevention strategies to reduce existing risk factors.