In eighth grade, a teacher asked me to describe myself in three words. The exercise prompted a question I have continued to think about: how do I explain where I belong when more than one place has shaped me? Living away from home has given that question new meaning.

​

​My interest in anthropology and sociology grew from wanting to understand how others make sense of their own backgrounds. Through research and documentary work in Indonesia, I have spent time listening to people whose experiences differ from mine. I also help organize cultural exchanges and support students adjusting to boarding school. I hope to build connections across cultures through this work, beginning with an effort to understand people on their own terms.