Recent Grad Paths: Leah '22

How have you moved forward in your educational journey in college?
At UVA, I’ve found my niche in exploring how race, gender, and class intersect in shaping social and economic inequalities through my major in Political and Social Thought. Each semester, my classes and extracurriculars deepen my understanding of issues I care about, from how Black motherhood is represented to how sports media impacts perceptions of athletes and activism. I’m especially excited to see everything I’ve studied come together in the thesis I’ll write in my fourth year. Through hands-on leadership roles, I’ve also been challenged to apply what I learn in class to real-life contexts, which has enriched both my academic and personal growth.

What is one way that Burke prepared you, academically or personally, for college?
Burke taught me how to approach challenges with curiosity, determination, and a strong foundation in critical reading and thinking. The emphasis on discussion-based learning not only built my confidence in sharing my perspective but also prepared me to tackle complex material in college. Many of the books and ideas we discussed at Burke have resurfaced in my college seminars, underscoring how valuable that early exposure to critical analysis has been in my academic journey and in navigating UVA’s collaborative, thought-provoking environment.

What should Burke juniors and seniors keep in mind during the process?
College can feel intimidating, but it’s also a time to explore who you are and what you care about. Choose a school where you can grow personally and academically. During the application process, make sure to convey who you are — colleges want to get to know your story and what’s important to you. Keep an open mind, and remember that your path is unique. Trust that you’ll end up where you’re meant to be!