Proudest Moment: Founding the first Timmy Global Health college chapter in the state of Washington and being awarded the Mary Gates Research Scholarship for my work in the Gottlieb lab

I graduated in Fall 2020 with a degree in Physiology. I am super grateful for my time here at UW and will cherish the great memories and experiences I’ve had. I look forward to starting medical school this summer!

Proudest Moment: Finishing my summer internship with the Cooperative Institute for Climate, Ocean, and Ecosystem Studies!

Hello! My name is Haley Staudmyer. I'm a climate scientist. I moved 2,000 miles away from everyone and everything I'd ever known in Ohio to receive an education at one of the best atmospheric sciences departments in the nation here at the UW. During my time here, I have officiated two clubs (the UW Chapter of the American Meteorological Society and Husky Gaming Nation), completed two different undergraduate research projects, and all the while maintained an impressive 3.8 GPA. My immediate post-graduation plan is to take a gap year in Seattle, during which I will work for the Cooperative Institute for Climate, Ocean, and Ecosystem Studies. Afterwards, I plan on moving who-knows-where to complete a PhD in atmospheric sciences. One day, I hope to author reports for the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change and facilitate important conversations about climate change among the media, the public, the government, and the academy. When I'm not thinking about one of humanity's greatest challenges, I enjoy board games, all things Nintendo, long walks, cooking, baking, playing the saxophone, and petting dogs.

Proudest Moment: Being a leader in Cru for all 4 years, working to connect with students. I also was proud when I recieved the top grade on a research paper in an engineering graduate course!

Hi, my name is Catherine! I am an engineering student here at UW and have immensely enjoyed my time here! I have had a wonderful diversity of activities, from leading in clubs, running events, or building rockets! I also met my husband and my dearest friends. Next stop is Washington D.C. to begin my career!

Proudest Moment: One of my proudest moments is when I presented my honors portfolio. I was surrounded by peers, friends, and family, and I was able to look back on all the challenges and successes I've had over the years!

Taylor studied Biology with Interdisciplinary Honors, and will be graduating Cum Laude. She sang with the University Chorale during her time at UW and with the University of Washington Chamber singers during her senior year; Taylor also spent much of her time interacting with students in the Honors program as a resident advisor and ARD in the LLC. She loves baking, being outdoors, and her many houseplants. Taylor is excited to work in ecological research next year and pursue a PhD the following year. She hopes to someday be a professor so that she can continue her love of learning and science while helping future students to succeed!

Proudest Moment: Co-founding and running the UW chapter of the John Quincy Adams Society!

My name's Kendrick, and I'll be graduating with a B.A. in International Studies. My academic interests include restorative justice, applying a human rights lens to environmental protection, and corporate social responsibility.

These days, you can find me playing soccer in the Greater Seattle area, weightlifting in my garage, or coaching at the IMA. I'll be doing so until the fall; then, I'll be attending Columbia Law School in pursuit of a career in public interest law.

Proudest Moment: Finding and joining a research lab.

Hello! My name is Masaki and I am graduating with degrees in biochemistry and economics. I am passionate about using data to model and understand biological and social problems, a fantastic combination of these two disciplines, and have spent over a year working with the Wang Lab for Bioinformatics studying the progression of metastasis. Understanding complex real world situations involves actively engaging with the communities affected, and I have spent time working with the People's Harm Reduction Alliance, Unified Sports, and scribing for doctors specializing in treating the rural communities near my hometown. Outside of learning I love playing/watching soccer with my friends, as well a exploring the beautiful outdoor views found in the Pacific Northwest. After graduating I am planning on applying to medical school, and am excited for the next steps in my education.

Proudest Moment: Student organizing during the summer of 2020

I am passionate about community organizing and building collective power. I am a current intern with Collective Justice, a local Restorative Justice organize building community pathways for healing and accountability.

Proudest Moment: Completing the honors calc series!

Academically, I'm interested in World War II history, computer systems, and accessibility. Outside of school, I enjoy baking, playing video games, and spending time in the great outdoors!

Proudest Moment: My proudest moment was when my PI asked me to be the youngest co-author of their paper on the very first research project of my life.

Hi, My name is Priyanka. I came to UW from a very small high school so naturally I was a little nervous to be starting at such a big school. However, I came in with a strong passion for medicine which helped me stay on track, and a strong desire to find my community. I can honestly say that over the past four years I have met some of the most amazing people and professors that have helped me navigate my interests in medicine while teaching me a lot about myself.
One of my biggest goals in college was to do something related to breast cancer, so after a lot of trying I finally got the chance to work at the Fred Hutch and contribute towards advancing chemotherapy treatments. Another thing I noticed is that whether I was working as a Resident Advisor or doing research in lab, every opportunity I have explored in college has helped me become a more aware and understanding individual. Compared to my first-year year self, I have definitely become a more confident, strong, and risk-taking woman.
On a more fun note, I am always down to watch a James Bond movie with a side of chicken wings which I for sure did a lot of in college. When I graduate, I plan on taking a nice break over the summer before I move away to start medical school.

Proudest Moment: I am really proud to have made the Dean's List consistently throughout my time at UW.

I am filled with gratitude, pride, and relief to be graduating from the UW with interdisciplinary honors, a degree in International Studies, and minors in French and European Studies. I have cherished my time at the UW: all that I’ve learned, the friends I’ve made, and the wonderful and varied experiences I’ve had. In addition to my major and minors, I was able to explore interesting honors courses and find creative outlets through dance and theater. I’ve been fortunate to work at UW, first at Meany Center during my sophomore year and currently as a member of a research team through Global Research Group. Many of my most memorable experiences of the past four years have been spending time with good friends, traveling with my family, and studying abroad at Sciences Po in Paris. Even though the past year has been unusual, I feel prepared for the “real world” and look forward to the challenges and adventures that the future holds for me.

Proudest Moment: Working with a team of students to teach older adults about the Human Centered Design process over a 6-week Co-Design study

Through my time at the UW, I had the opportunity to discover and learn more about the field of UX Design. As an aspiring User Experience Designer, I am committed to using my design skills to create that better future. To do so, I aim to create products that help users face new challenges and allow them to reach new potentials. I aim to design intuitive products that can help boost users' productivity and advance their goals in a way can that is inclusive for everyone. After graduation, I am moving to the East Coast to be a UX Designer!
During my time at the UW, I have had the opportunity to be a part of many great programs, including being a Resident Advisor in the Honors LLC, Orientation Leader, Honors Community Ambassadors, and Hall Council. I also got the opportunity to be a design member and, later, a Project Lead for Design for America UW while also conducting research through DRGs in the HCDE department.
Outside of design and academics, I am an avid photographer and biker! I am passionate about helping out in my community and volunteer for a variety of organizations. When the weather is cold, I love to stay inside and re-watch Psych and Brooklyn Nine-Nine while watching it snow outside. Most of all, I make a high number of quality puns (my record is 23 in an hour).

Proudest Moment: My proudest moment at UW was when I delivered a presentation on end-stage renal disease in a medical physiology class. I was able to overcome a fear of public speaking and more clearly see myself pursuing a career in healthcare!

I am proud to be graduating with a bachelor's degree in Neuroscience and Interdisciplinary Honors, and I am grateful for the support and opportunities that have made my time at UW unforgettable. I would not be here today without the unconditional encouragement and support from my family!

I am from Wenatchee, WA and love to hike, cook and read in my spare time. After graduation I will be working as a certified nursing assistant as I prepare to apply to physician assistant (PA) programs.

Proudest Moment: Meeting other WRF fellows and getting to know the community!

I am excited to pursue my career in bioinformatics at the Fred Hutch! I intend to go to grad school after a few years of working. I am an avid baker and love drawing, both digitally and on paper!

Proudest Moment: My proudest moment at UW was when I delivered a presentation on end-stage renal disease in a medical physiology class. I was able to overcome a fear of public speaking and more clearly see myself pursuing a career in healthcare!

I am proud to be graduating with a bachelor's degree in Neuroscience and Interdisciplinary Honors, and I am grateful for the support and opportunities that have made my time at UW unforgettable! I would not be here today without the unconditional encouragement and support from my family!

I am from Wenatchee, WA and love to hike, cook and read in my spare time. After graduation I will be working as a certified nursing assistant as I prepare to apply to physician assistant (PA) programs.

Proudest Moment: One of my proudest moments at UW was completing the Jackson School Task Force program. I am also proud of my community and grateful I was lucky enough to have such supportive and inspiring friends all along the way.

While at UW and in the Honors program, I had the privilege of working for Sustainable Seattle and UW's recreation program both in climbing and first year programs.
My goal upon graduating UW is to work in progressive politics and community organizing in Washington, DC.

Proudest Moment: Running home to Gamma Phi Beta after recruitment week, getting 100% on my research paper in my HIV/AIDS course, moving to France alone to study French and Global Health, securing my internship and first job at Seattle Children's Research Institute

I am from Vashon Island, WA where I lived with my mom, dad, younger brother, and dog (Major). I came into college with the intention of pursuing a medical or dental degree, but quickly found that my passions and interests aligned with Public - Global Health. I chose to declare my major as Medical Anthropology & Global Health and never looked back. Career-wise, I am particularly interested in pediatric clinical research and plan to pursue a PhD in order to facilitate my own lab. After college, I will be working as a Clinical Research Coordinator at Seattle Children's in the Pediatric Pain and Sleep Lab.

Outside of work and school, I love to cook new recipes, play card games, travel, and read.

Proudest Moment: Probably being able to work on a paper that was accepted by an academic journal.

Computer science major wondering what to do after graduation. Other interests include history, music, and games

Proudest Moment: I am most proud of the personal growth that I have experienced from being an out of state student from Texas.

I am proud to graduate from UW with a B.S. in Electrical & Computer Engineering. I will begin pursuing an M.S. in ECE next fall to deepen my knowledge in the Computer Architecture and Embedded Computing Systems areas. Thank you to my Mom (Kathy), my Dad (Scott), my Sisters (Stephanie and Kristen), and my girlfriend (Lawson) for your love and support. Additional thanks to all my friends who have helped me make Washington my home. I could not have done it without you all. Sko Dawgs!

Proudest Moment: Working as a Peer Adviser with UW Undergraduate Academic Affairs Advising!

Hello! My name is Elise Aydelott, and I'm graduating from the University of Washington Interdisciplinary Honors Program with a BA in Psychology and a minor in Spanish. I plan on getting my CNA this summer and going to nursing school next year, with the goal of becoming a psychiatric nurse practitioner. I'm very passionate about expanding access to mental health care and breaking the stigma associated with it. I'm looking forward to taking a year off of school to explore the health care field and gain some experience before applying to nursing school.

Proudest Moment: My fondest memory was studying abroad in Madrid during in 2019. Living, walking, and existing in a new place forced the growth that I needed. When I came back, it gave me a newfound appreciation for the little things about ordinary days in Seattle I overlooked before.

Hi, I'm Joanne and I am from Bellevue. But Taipei, Chicago, Madrid, and Seattle are all places I call home.

Proudest Moment: My biggest point of pride and gratitude was leaving the familiar to study abroad in Kathmandu during autumn quarter of 2019. It was three months filled with growth, learning, and constantly pushing myself out of my comfort zone!

Even before I came to UW, I knew I wanted to pursue the field of design. I'm currently planning to start full-time work as a product designer, and I love how this type of work enables me to problem-solve and exercise my creativity within the digital realm. I thrive on moments of creative collaboration, whether that's brainstorming in a room filled with sticky notes or engaging in participatory design with communities. I also have an interest in the world of global health and am always looking for ways to engage with initiatives in this area.

Proudest Moment: Getting published at CSCW 2020 for my research on HCI + misinformation!

Hi, I'm Cam! I'm a human-centered designer with a passion for products that facilitate connection. I love climbing, concerts, and my cat, Harley.

Proudest Moment: Three years investing in the community of the Honors Program as a Peer Educator

I am excited to be graduating from the University of Washington Honors Program with a degree in Psychology!

Some of my highlights from my four years at UW include two years working as a research assistant for a TA's dissertation, "Project ARISE," and three years leading the Honors Community as a Peer Educator. I am thrilled to be continuing my education next fall at Seattle Pacific University, where I will be pursuing a Master's Degree in Family and Marriage Therapy.

I am so thankful for my time as a Husky. Go Dawgs!

Proudest Moment: Finally embracing my dad's lifelong advice that "It's not what you know, it's who you know" and dedicating my last quarter to strengthening my friendships and enjoying my last few months in Seattle

I'm a lifelong learner who is fascinated by the people, places, technology, and interactions around me. My curiosity to understand more about how humans interact with each other and their products led me to human-centered design. Meanwhile, my internships with two Seattle nonprofits sparked my desire to use my career to actively and positively impact my community. During my career as an experience designer, I hope to work on products that create social good while also having the flexibility to pursue my dreams of learning a new skill every year and traveling the world.

Proudest Moment: I am proud to graduate with a degree from the Foster School of Business while also completing the Interdisciplinary Honors Program, two goals I set out with at the start of my first-year year. I am proud of the personal and professional growth I have witnessed in myself over the past four years, growth that has pushed me to dream big and strive for things I would not have before. I am proud of my academic success, the leadership and real-world internship experiences I have gained, and the unbelievably amazing, lifelong friends I have made largely thanks to Gamma Phi Beta.

Hi! My name is Hanna Puetz. Born and raised in the Greater Seattle Area, I came into UW with the intention of pursuing a business degree, although without knowing what focus or career path I wanted to pursue afterwards. I am excited to say I have found my path over the past four years.

I am a undergraduate student earning a B.A. in Business Administration from the University of Washington's Michael G. Foster School of Business with a focus in marketing and the Professional Sales Certificate, graduating Spring 2021. As a student in the Interdisciplinary Honors program, I also enjoyed a rigorous, cross-disciplinary curriculum that complemented my business degree and provided a more holistic, well-rounded education. After college, I will be working on the Global Sales and Services team at Slalom Consulting in Seattle.

Proudest Moment: One of my proudest moments was creating a music video of our competition set with my a cappella group Furmata. I never imagined that I would be involved in a musical project of this caliber as an undergrad.

I am excited to be graduating from UW with Interdisciplinary Honors and a degree in Computer Science. These past four years I have gotten to explore my biggest passions: music and technology. I have been deeply involved in my a cappella group Furmata. I have sung at various events in Seattle including weddings, fundraisers, UW alum events, and national competitions. As President of Furmata, I have overseen and organized competitions, gigs, music videos, and albums. I have also enjoyed deepening my knowledge of computer science outside of the classroom. My experience as a TA for the CSE14x series along with my internships at Automation Anywhere and Amazon have prepared me for my full-time role at Microsoft. I feel so lucky to have found incredible friends at UW, and I can't wait to grow with them.

Proudest Moment: When I started at UW, I thought it was a good idea to do the advanced series for General Chemistry. What that meant was instead of 3 quarters of chemistry classes, they were condensed into 2 quarters (with the same amount of material). It went about as good as you would imagine, and as someone who enjoyed chemistry but was not gifted with an immediate understanding of the material, it was a hard time to say the least. When I finished my second quarter I was insanely stressed about the final, and I remember getting my grade back while I was on the roof of Terry Hall. I got a final grade in that class that made me jump out of my seat (in excitement), and I don't think I will be forgetting that anytime soon.

I grew up in Spokane, and I have always had a passion for the environment. That's what drove me to major in EnvE, along with my love for math, chemistry, and biology. Outside of my career, I am an avid knitter, hiker, baker, and I enjoy playing video games with my friends. Throughout my time at UW I loved cooking for my friends and learning to perfect recipes passed down by the Mexican side of my family. Long term in my career, I hope to do good not only for the environment but for the people of my community,

Proudest Moment: Some of the greatest memories I've made were on my study abroad trips from 2019. I travelled to Jordan for archaeological field school and Rome as a part of an Honors study abroad program. I am most proud of these moments because I learned a lot about myself and really got to break out of my shell and make new friends all while learning about other cutlures.

Hello! I'm Alondra and I'm graduating with a degree in Archaeological Sciences and History.

My time here at UW has been transformative and memorable. I've learned so much about myself, my passion for history and curiosity about the world.

I am so thankful for having attended UW and been a part of the Interdisciplinary Honors Program, and I am even more thankful for the friends and professors I've met along the way.

Proudest Moment: Becoming the Director of the ASUW Student Disability Commission!

Thesis: Disability Gain: Exploring the Advantages of Different Bodies and Minds

Heyo! My name is Christine. I am a Disability justice advocate and CODA (Child of Deaf Adults). Most of my work has centered around creating inclusive and accessible spaces for people with disabilities. I'm always happy to answer questions you may have, or just participate in a nice invigorating conversation about the world in general. Let me know if there's any way I can support you :)

Proudest Moment: Going to college nationals in Austin, Texas with the ultimate team, UW Element!

I am an ACMS Biological and Life Sciences major, hoping to apply something I love (math!) to solve real-world problems, especially around environmental issues. I am thankful for UW Interdisciplinary Honors and the diverse departments at UW for allowing me to take a large variety of courses, and letting me pursue and learn about all the things I'm interested in. It is wonderful to learn from professors who are passionate about their field and their students! I am also minoring in Norwegian; learning a new language has been a challenging and exciting process for me, and allowed me to feel more connected to my heritage, as well as introducing me to the wonderful community within the Scandinavian Studies department. While at UW I have played club ultimate frisbee on UW Element, and I am so thankful for the support, lessons, and life-long friends it has given me. Next year, I plan on taking a gap year and moving to Spain to teach English! This will be a new adventure for me as I figure out my next step.

Proudest Moment: The Honors field study I did in 2019 in Washington's 3 national parks was such a formative experience for me to discover what I was capable of, make great new friends, and was the beginning point of my main path diverging from politics to conservation. I think about those 2 weeks in the wilderness with those 11 amazing people multiple times a week and I'm so grateful for that experience.

I love hiking and backpacking in the national parks and developed this love on an Honors Field Study with Aley, Brook, and Laura in 2019! Now I'm happy to announce I am pursuing a career in the National Park Service working this year at Shenandoah National Park!

Additionally I have remained active in my passion for voting rights and social justice with the Seattle-based organization Common Power

Proudest Moment: I was excited to be accepted to a PhD program directly out of undergrad. I will be starting my PhD in the department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology at the University of California, Irvine in the fall of 2021. In graduate school I am planning to study the comparative functional morphology and biomechanics of swimming and feeding mechanisms in elasmobranchs (sharks, rays, and skates).

Thesis: The versatile skulls of herbivorous fishes: functional morphology of pacu jaws and teeth

I am passionate about marine life and evolutionary biology, and I am especially interested in learning about fishes. I loved my time at UW because I was able to explore my scientific interests and develop my skills as a researcher.

Proudest Moment: Completing the Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry series. They really kicked my butt!

During my time at UW I worked for UWILD and UW Crags Climbing Center, volunteered at Facing Homelessness, worked for the research group UnBiased Health, and completed my B.S. in Biology.
More importantly, I engaged in late night debates with friends about medical ethics, spent lots of time exploring the Cascade mountains, took dance classes, explored Seattle, learned how to study hard and believe in my abilities, and to respect others' diverse and rich experiences.
I entered UW knowing that I wanted to pursue a career in healthcare. This vision took many twists, turns, and detours during my time at UW. However, I have come out the other side surer than ever.
I am now planning to work as an EMT while I prepare to apply to medical school. As a future medical professional I will support the people who fall through the cracks of the medical and social systems that are currently in place. I will do my best to reshape these very systems.

Proudest Moment: I received a note from a student who met with me in Peer Wellness Coaching and they thanked me for my help in their journey to self-compassion. It was a simple, beautiful, and unexpected instance of gratitude.

Learning, growth, change, and challenge are all priceless gifts that I have been abundantly given in the past four years. My professors, friends, supervisors, and colleagues facilitated so many of those moments of uncertainty, and often frustration. It was certainly a challenge to excel academically while still enjoying the process of integrating into higher education and the real-world. I was also able to practice community stewardship as a Peer Health Educator and, recently, a Peer Wellness Coach. In both of those roles, I was able to sow my knowledge and passion for well-being and mindfulness in the university community, a privilege I hope to never take for granted. One lesson, of many, that I will take away from my undergraduate career is that the past and future are simply in our minds but it is the present, which is right in front of us, that we have influence on. I leave UW impassioned to be a part in creating a more loving, caring world, in whatever arena and career I may land in.

Proudest Moment: Sailing for UW at ICSA Match Race nationals and keeping my fiddle leaf fig plant alive!

I am a lifelong husky fan and was born and raised here in Seattle, WA. After graduation I will be working in digital marketing. Otherwise, my post-grad goals are to read for fun more often and to one day sail around the world!

Proudest Moment: Becoming fully bilingual

I grew up on Vashon Island, right outside of Seattle, and plan to remain in the city following graduation. Despite majoring in Microbiology, language has always been one of my favorite subjects, leading me to pursue a minor in Spanish. I've been fortunate enough to try out undergraduate activities ranging from undergraduate research for UW's Biology department, to shadowing and volunteer work at Harborview Medical Center, to working with patients myself as a Medical Technologist. The one box I was unable to check as an undergraduate at UW was studying abroad, so I've made it a goal to live outside the US for at least a month before 2021 is over (pandemic-permitting).

I plan to apply to medical school this summer and spend my gap year working, spending time with family, pursuing other interests, and making sure I truly want to be a physician.

Proudest Moment: Undergraduate Research Symposium Presentation

Thesis: CoViD-19: A Probable Transition to Endemicity

There is little enough to say about me. I am a student at the University of Washington, working on a degree in Microbiology. I am a student in the Honors program, trying to broaden my horizons and open my mind to new possibilities. I am fascinated by zoonotic pathogens, and find them a truly delightful topic. I dislike pictures or photography, particularly of myself, but immensely enjoy the written word. I read voraciously, and write with enthusiasm, on the rare opportunities when I have the time. I am a musician of some little skill, particularly on the piano. I have enjoyed my time at UW, and look forward to whatever might come next.

Proudest Moment: One of my proudest moments at UW was performing in Latvia and Estonia with Chamber Singers and Chorale!

I am a singer and activist from Wayzata, Minnesota. I have loved my time at UW singing in choir and being a member of Huskies for NARAL Pro-Choice Washington. I plan on attending law school after a gap year, with the goal of working for a public interest law firm.

Proudest Moment: My proudest moment was working with student-inmates at the Monroe Correctional Complex where we worked on creating a sustainable prison-based college program.

I am excited and proud to announce that soon I will be graduating from the UW with a double major in Political Science and Law, Societies, and Justice. Coming from a family of Mexican immigrants, this journey stands as a testimony to the strength, perseverance, and resilience of my community. This moment could not have been possible without the support of my mother (Yadira), grandparents (Emma & Abel), my boyfriend (Mitch), and all the incredible friendships I have made over the last four years. I plan on continuing my education at UCLA School of Law where I hope to keep fighting for marginalized communities.

Un gran agradecimiento a mi familia por todo el amor y apoyo que ha hecho posible este momento. ¡Este título es para todos ustedes!

Proudest Moment: Being a FIG leader and building connections with my students!!

Sharay Rapozo is a proud first-generation college graduate, earning her degree in Political Science from the University of Washington in December 2020. Originally from Kauai, Hawaii, Sharay moved to Seattle to pursue higher education. During her time her at the UW, Sharay found ways to incorporate values important to her, such as education, collaboration, and determination, into her activities. Sharay mentored with the Dream Project and Mentor Power for Success. She was also a First Year Interest Group (FIG) leader. Her interests of study included American politics, the American court system, democracy, critical race theory, prison abolition, and much more.

Proudest Moment: Successfully balancing rigorous biochem courses, multiple dance classes, and full + part time jobs!

During my four years at the UW, I enjoyed a very interdisciplinary education through the UW Honors, where I studied a variety of fascinating subjects such as the history of atomic bombings, social justice, and ethnomusicology. And with my biochemistry major, I developed a keen interest in today's medicine, especially the mechanisms in which pharmaceutical drugs interact with the brain to treat mental disorders. I also developed a deep love and appreciation for partner dancing, such as salsa, bachata, and tango, through my classes with the UW Dance Department. I am grateful for all the people I met during my time at the UW who have supported and inspired me and continue to do so everyday.

Proudest Moment: Working alongside my classmates, Vicky Lawson, and Real Change News to create The Portrait Project exhibit

I am a PHGH student with interests in health equity, social justice, and community engagement. My undergraduate years were spent developing my passions for public health, having fun with the Husky Marching Band, exploring new hobbies, traveling, and just generally spending time enjoying all of the wonderful classes, people, and opportunities UW had to offer. The next step in my life is an indefinite road trip around the United States and perhaps beyond! Thrilled for the adventure and the possibilities :)

Proudest Moment: I was awarded the 2018-2019 Slavic Undergraduate Excellence Prize by the Department of Slavic Languages and Literatures for a paper I wrote on Dostoevsky's "The Brothers Karamazov". The paper was my final for an Honors elective in the Slavic Literature department called "Russia's Big Books", which I submitted for the competition only after being encouraged to do so by my professor and TA in the class, not expecting anything to come of it. It was an enormous moment of validation for me, and I'm glad I participated in the Interdisciplinary Honors program if only for my exposure to awesome classes like the Russia's Big Books series.

I came into college not knowing what I wanted to study, what I wanted to do for a living, or how I would find my place in this sprawling daunting campus. In the thick of my time here, if you asked me if I had what it takes to finish my math major, I would have told you, "I guess we'll find out one way or another." Somehow I now find myself on the other side of these four years having made it through switching from a B.A. in Mathematics to a B.S. in my final year (a choice which required me to take on three 400-level math series simultaneously each quarter this year), having discovered a firm conviction toward becoming a math teacher, and having built a rich community of friends. My time at the UW has taught me that what comes next probably won't be how I imagine it now -- it will be full of breakthroughs, setbacks, and unexpected turns. I wouldn't have it any other way!

Proudest Moment: One of my proudest moments was when my photography was put on display in the Allen Library as part of the Portraits for Change exhibit. The photo project compared images of poverty in Seattle from throughout past decades to contemporary photos that I took myself.

I'm an aspiring aerospace engineer that's passionate about advancing spacefaring technology. I want to develop next generation space propulsion systems that can enable humanity to navigate and explore the cosmos more effectively. Nothing amazes me more than the marvels of our physical world and the perplexing nature of our planet and place in the universe. I hope to pursue a graduate degree in space engineering and conduct research that pushes technological boundaries. I'd love to one day be strapped to a rocket headed into orbit to do research.

My favorite pasttimes are mountaineering and cycling, but I really enjoy all things adventurous and physically demanding. I am preparing for a ~1600 mile thru-hike of a portion of the Pacific Crest Trail spanning from NorCal to Canada that will be my most intense adventure to date! I also play the drums and some guitar and love speaking Spanish whenever I get the chance.

Proudest Moment: Founding UW's first student-run startup incubator

I'm a senior at the University of Washington, Seattle, studying computer science and entrepreneurship. Over the last 4 years of college I’ve founded a software startup, manufactured and sold a party card game, and brewed moonshine in my dorm room freezer. I also ran the technology team at DubHacks, was the head teaching assistant for a human-computer interaction course, and am a part of UW’s interdisciplinary honors program.

Outside of school, I love playing board games, watching professional League of Legends, and bantering with friends. I enjoy gravity-assist sports, namely downhill mountain biking and skiing, and I’ve been trying to get into running (but this is attempt #4, so we’ll see if I stick to it).

Proudest Moment: Tie between not getting stuck in hip-deep mud on a Willapa tideflat and managing to crawl to firmer ground, and that time I started running in Costa Rica right before the local biologist purposefully disturbed a wasp nest. (I can recognize a mean prank when I see one.)

I'm a runner, backpacker, ecologist, and statistics fiend who spent the four years of my college career getting closer and closer to working in the ocean full-time. Plants are my main passion. I started out with terrestrial stuff my first few years, working in the UW Herbarium in Hitchcock's basement, but got into algae and marine angiosperms after spending a quarter at Friday Harbor Laboratory in the San Juan Islands. I took a break over that summer to study abroad in Costa Rica with Drs. Moon Draper and Jon Herron, and then returned to Seattle to work as an undergraduate researcher in the Hille Ris Lambers Lab, using herbarium specimens of lupines to compare insectivory rates from the 1890s to the present. Dr. Jennifer Ruesink snatched me up after that, and from spring 2020 to late summer 2021 I've worked for her lab, looking at eelgrass and burrowing shrimp interactions on oyster farms in Willapa Bay, WA. My most recent accomplishment as of writing this (spring 2021) was getting into a full-funded M.Sc aquaculture program based in Oban, Scotland, with time spent in Heraklion, Greece, and Nantes, France. It turns out people will pay you to mess around with marine organisms and travel - who knew?

Proudest Moment: Getting into my major!

A little about myself- I’m originally from Tacoma WA, but I've also lived in Puerto Rico, Nicaragua, and spent several months of every year visiting my family in Spain! Outside of work and school, I love being outdoors and cooking random recipes, and also enjoy dancing, attending art walks, and visiting local markets. Aside from those hobbies, my main passion in life is traveling. This year, I had the opportunity to live abroad in Europe with my family during the full school year. Once travel opens up again, I hope to visit several different countries before starting my job at Microsoft as a project manager!

Proudest Moment: My proudest moment at UW was making the switch from majoring in International Studies to Mathematics. It was a massive transition, made especially intimidating because I was already entering my junior year at UW. I was very unsure if I was doing the right thing, and there were few people who could advise me, because few people understood both paths I was considering. Even certain math department staff told me it was too late to make the transition, and that I should give up. But, I trusted my gut. I couldn't be happier with how it all ended up, nor prouder of myself for having had the courage to make such a bold change.

Hi! I'm Dana. I'm graduating with a degree in Mathematics and a minor in International Studies (by the way, I also earned a minor in Applied Mathematics, but I didn't make that one official because it felt a little redundant). My unusual combination of disciplines comes from a deep love of learning and curiosity about the world. I entered UW as an International Studies major, but later fell in love with the creativity and beauty that coexists with the rigor and structure of mathematics.

While at UW, I did research in community involvement in USAID initiatives, natural language processing, and novel applications of graph theory for understanding real number sequences. I was (briefly) in a sorority -- Chi Omega. As a lead writing tutor in the Odegaard Writing & Research Center, I met students from across disciplines and programs at UW, and got to chat with them about reading and writing, which are two of my favorite things. Some of my fondest college memories come from Dean LaRue's International Negotiation Simulation class, where I represented Poland in our model EU sessions all quarter. I even competed in the Global Health Business Case Competition in the Foster School of Business, which was basically a 48-hour intensive course on how to put together a business plan for me (though we won second place!).

Throughout it all, I count myself lucky to have been part of the Honors community. The students and staff of this program are all lit from within by their passion, creativity, and devotion to understanding and improving the world. The most interesting conversations of my life have largely taken place within Honors classes (or have at least been sparked by the curriculum therein).

Since graduating, I've started work as a data scientist at Facebook. I'm looking forward to what else the future brings, and excited to keep connecting with my Honors peers.

Proudest Moment: Completing my first case competition!

I'm excited to graduate with a business degree and a Certificate of International Studies in Business. At UW I was able to get involved with various programs and clubs which were influential in my college experience. During my time at UW, I was able to participate in two study abroad programs, one to Ecuador with the Honors Program and one to Spain with the Spanish Department. All of the memories and experiences from my time at the University have shaped me into who I am today, and I'm excited to be graduating and starting my next chapter.

Proudest Moment: Presenting my education policy recommendations for my Task Force capstone project.

I'll be graduating with a B.A. in International Studies and a specialization in Western Europe. The Honors Program has given me the wonderful opportunity to delve deeper into my academic interests. From studying abroad to online school, I am eternally grateful for the diversity in the experiences I have acquired. I have realized my passion for improving the educational space and I hope to combine my major and my interests to continue to improve diversity and accessibility in education abroad.

Next year, I will be pursuing graduate school to obtain my M.A. Although I am still deciding exactly where I will be going, I am nevertheless excited to bring the skills Honors has taught me to all my future endeavors.

Proudest Moment: Student organizing to shut down the Northwest Detention Center

I graduated in March 2021 with my degree in Law, Societies and Justice and a minor in Spanish. I am specifically interested in restorative justice and environmental justice. Looking forward, I will be taking a gap year to teach English in Spain before pursuing my career in public interest law.

I am so grateful for my time in the interdisciplinary honors program, as I feel like it allowed me to explore areas of study that I would not have otherwise prioritized. This helped me not only figure out what I wanted to study, but also allowed me to meet incredible UW students with varied interests and backgrounds. Thank you to the amazing advisors and professors in this program!

Proudest Moment: Getting to the point where I am ready to graduate because it means that all my effort and perseverance over the last four years has paid off and made me ready for the next step in life

After graduating from UW, my goal is to go on to medical school and work to become an orthopedic surgeon. In the meantime, I am working as a medical scribe in St. Anne's emergency department for an amazing group of physicians. I am also the current chief medical scribe for the hospital which was a very welcome promotion and a great step into a leadership position. I am also working towards acquiring my EMT certification so that I might take the next step in my journey through the medical field and have a more involved role in patient care. In what free time I do have, I enjoy hanging out with my friends, playing soccer, playing football, exploring Seattle, and traveling the world.

Proudest Moment: Earning a Foster and Honors scholarship in the same week!

Hi! My name is Alisa Das and I am graduating with a B A in Business Administration in the concentrations of Information Systems and Operations Management/Supply Chain. Coming to UW, I had a goal of wanting to be a voice of representation and use my skills and education to better society, my community in some way. During my time here, I discovered a newfound interest in business and believe it would be a good pairing with my future goals. I am grateful to have found community in Foster and the Honors department where I have learned from and amongst so many inspirational, encouraging, and amazing people. Another integral part of my college journey was my own cultural growth. It's a priority in my life to learn more about my South Asian heritage and stay connected. I have been able to engage with the South Asian community here at UW by being on the South Asian Student Association board and have had some of my best times.

To my college journey, thank you so much for all the lessons, experiences and memories. I look forward to collecting all these tokens onto the next chapter where I plan on earning a JD/MBA dual degree!

Proudest Moment: After 7 long years at the UW I have so many cherished memories but one of my favorite moments is when I, along with my peers in an honors class about critical community organizing were able to put on a BIPOC focused talent showcase for the community.

Thesis: Effects of climate change on hemlock woolly adelgid range

I am an environmentalist, a poet, home cook, and all around big chiller.

Proudest Moment: Surviving the accelerated general chemistry series!

Hi! I'm Kyanna and I'll be graduating with a Bachelor's in Physiology, a minor in Disability Studies, and of course, Interdisciplinary Honors! I will be applying to physical therapy school this fall to pursue a Doctorate of Physical Therapy, which I hope to use to work in an inpatient setting with a neurology focus. My physiology and disability studies courses have worked in tandem to help me recognize my passion for providing rehabilitative care that is both research-informed and inclusive. In my future career, I hope to continue to utilize the knowledge I have gained while at UW to create spaces for disability pride within the field of physical therapy.

Outside of the classroom, I have enjoyed collaborating with my fellow Honors students as an Honors Community Ambassador, working as a physical therapy aide, tutoring with the Riverways program, and serving as the LDS Student Association President. My time at UW has been packed full of wonderful memories and critical learning experiences (both academic and personal), and I am so excited to take everything I've learned over the last four years with me in my future endeavors.

Proudest Moment: Being a TA for CSE 311!

I am excited to be graduating with a degree in computer science and will be working as a software engineer in the fall. When I first arrived at UW, I was completely directionless. Being in the Honors program, I was able to pursue an interdisciplinary curriculum, but behind that veneer, I had no idea what I was doing or what I even wanted to do. Over the last four years, with the help of many friends and faculty, that wayward first-year has turned into someone with an actual plan and direction for the future.

I have also picked up so many invaluable experiences along the way, from TA’ing a computer science class, to studying abroad in Japan, to doing an internship, to taking a bunch of weird yet interesting Honors classes. In the time I have before entering the real world, I hope to travel, watch at least thirty movies, read one book, and do some yoga.

Proudest Moment: Seeing one of my past students become a TA herself, making me a “TA Dad”.

I’m 21, have plans to continue to work at Microsoft as a Software Engineer, as well as pursuing hobbies such as traveling and aviation.

Proudest Moment: My proudest moments at UW have been marching in the 2019 Rose Parade with the Husky Marching Band and being an Orientation Leader/Coordinator!

Hey y'all! I'm Autumn, and I'm a Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology graduate! Throughout my time in Honors, I have spent time as a Peer Educator (shoutout to my amazing cohort, section AC!) and as an Honors Community Ambassador. Stepping outside of the world of biology, I've been so grateful to be able to explore all sorts of unique courses like "Women in Greek and Roman Antiquity" and others about public health, business, and political science. Outside of Honors, I have spent the last four years as a trumpet player in the Husky Marching Band, as an Orientation Leader and Coordinator, as a General Chemistry Peer Facilitator, and working to make a difference in and raise awareness about rural healthcare through Healthcare Alternative Spring Break (HCASB) program. After graduation, I plan to take a gap year as I apply to medical school to work towards becoming a pediatrician. During my gap year, I plan to continue gaining clinical experience, relaxing, staying involved with music, and hopefully traveling! Thank you all so much for an amazing experience in Honors, and GO DAWGS!

Proudest Moment: Becoming a peer educator for Honors 100. Also, finishing college at all.

The past three years were nothing like I expected. Of course I couldn't have foreseen half of what 2020 brought, but I also didn't expect the kind of person I would grow into and what my ultimate takeaways would be from university. Through my time here I've discovered a love of teaching, a renewed passion for writing music, a confidence and self-assurance I'd never known before, and a comfort with the unknown. I have less of an idea of what I want from my career and my life than when I came here, but I'm more okay with that now than I ever was before.
For now, should the circumstances allow, I'll be taking my degree with me overseas to continue developing my language skills and building work experience. After that, we'll see what happens.

Proudest Moment: Lauching Hack'20 during my time as co-director of DubHacks

I'm so thankful for my time at UW, and especially for the wonderful community I've found in my fellow 14X TAs. I'm wrapping up my 8th quarter of TAing and I can truly say that teaching has been the most important experience of my college career. Shoutout to my favorite Honors classes, Game Theory (which I knew I would love) and Russian Crime Fiction (which I did not expect to like at all). Other highlights include attending Grace Hopper Celebration with the Allen School, taking ballet classes at Meany Hall, biking across the 520 bridge, and crocheting by the fountain! Next year, I'll be pursing my Master's degree through the Combined BS/MS program at the Allen School.