Hallie Meisler Graduation Year: 2020

Major: Women's, Gender, and Sexuality Studies

Minor: Political Science and Critical and Comparative Race and Ethnic Studies


How did you decide on your major?

I chose my major after returning from the Women’s March on Washington in 2017. I remember the feeling of being surrounded by so many like-minded people with such a drive and dedication for women’s empowerment and thought to myself, if I could do this everyday for the rest of my life, I would be incredibly happy and fulfilled. While that kind of experience can’t happen every day, I had a very a similar reaction sitting in my first Women’s and Gender Studies course. I knew that the community, professors, and my classmates would continue to sustain my excitement and passion for women’s empowerment through the conversations and discussions, taking place in class every day, and giving me the insights to turn my academic gains into a successful career.

What is it about your chosen field (and the department) that appeals to you?

I love the community of people in each and every one of my WGS classes—everyone is so open and willing to learn and grow from the experiences and exchanges we have. I love that my classes address current events while also covering such wide-ranging topics as politics and religion to motherhood and international human rights. Every professor manages to find a way to combine theory and intellectual rigor in an environment that gives students a voice and the ability to self-express. It is truly an invaluable academic department.

Do you have a favorite class/professor within your major?

So far, my favorite class has been Women and Leadership with Charlotte Bunch. It was such an inspiration to be able to learn from a human rights icon. We learned about other amazing women leaders and developed an understanding of leadership theory. Every single class featured inspiring women who I want to emulate, as I gain confidence and develop my own skills as a leader.

What are your favorite academic experiences outside of your major?

The academic experiences I most enjoyed beyond my major have been political science classes and programs through Eagleton. In particular, I did an internship with the Center for Youth Political Participation during which I facilitated voter registration drives and programs to educate and build political awareness about candidates running in the upcoming elections, which was extremely rewarding.

What are your other Rutgers activities?

I am a Leadership Scholar at the Institute for Women’s Leadership, and I work as a computing consultant in the Office of Information Technology department. I am also involved in a variety of clubs on campus including Rutgers Democrats, RU for Choice, and the Yoga Club.

What are your plans following graduation?

Once I graduate, I hope to join a political campaign or work for organizations that are geared to give women the confidence, tools, and resources to run for political office.

 

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