Hometown: Cheshire, Connecticut
Major: Economics
Internship: Big Creek People In Action in Caretta, West Virginia
This June as I departed for the coalfields of West Virginia my knowledge of poverty was largely limited to class readings and discussions. During my summer interning with Big Creek People in Action in McDowell County, my understanding of poverty evolved into an appreciation of what it means to be poor - what it means to be the victim of economic flight, abandonment, and demise after enjoying a childhood of prosperity generated from the mines. I learned that many of the people struggling with poverty are simply the victims of unlucky economic forces. Otherwise, the impoverished are no different than me. Any sense of entitlement to the privileges I have enjoyed in my life was challenged and destroyed. Like myself, many of those I met this summer, were hardworking, intelligent, funny, incredibly generous, and genuinely caring individuals. The community of Caretta, West Virginia taught me about inequity and injustice; that unbridled capitalism fails as a social contract for a substantial number of people. As a result of this lesson and my time spent at Big Creek People in Action, my view of my role in society has been shaped considerably. My desire to use my life and my education in a manner that brings positive change to the lives of others now seems a matter of necessity rather than choice.
Capstone Topic:
Obesity and Poverty in Rural Populations
Community Service/Involvement:
