campus directory

Alyson Lush

Program of Emphasis: International Studies

Hometown: Spring Mills, PA

High School: Penns Valley Area Senior HS

Why I chose to attend Juniata: I transferred from Penn State after my freshman year, and I loved the community feel of the Juniata campus. The people here-the students, faculty, and staff-are amazing, inclusive, and genuinely care for one another. I have also had the opportunity to be involved in so many incredible opportunities. I have studied abroad twice in the Gambia and will be going to Ecuador next semester. My experiences here at Juniata and on my trips abroad have been unbelievable and I am very happy with my decision to transfer!

Clubs and Organizations: Yes, I have been a member of Student Food Initiative and coordinated several speakers last year. I am also a student assistant for the Politics Department, and I participate in many activities for the department.

Internship: This summer I worked at Chatham University under Dr. Jean Jacques Sene. I coordinated a Global Focus program on the campus and edited bibliographic references for a book manuscript Dr. Sene was editing. The experience was rewarding, and I am looking forward to the publishing of the book!

Travels Abroad: I studied abroad this past semester in the Gambia and had an awesome experience. I was able to work as a beekeeping intern at an NGO in the Gambia, teach agriculture at a local school, and travel around the country. I thoroughly enjoyed my time abroad and this experience has shaped my future plans. I have a much greater understanding of challenges to development, political oppression, and a greater cultural understanding of the Gambia. I'm currently teaching a Wolof (Gambian language) class at Juniata for the study abroad group who will be visiting the country during the winter.

Most Interesting Class: I took Gender and Conflict this year, and I found it to be among the most interesting I've taken. The concepts we discuss around gender roles, masculinity, and femininity are pertinent to everyday life, and the discussions we have had in the class have been very illuminating. The class has shaped the way I think about gendered relations and has inspired me to apply for a Gender Studies Secondary Emphasis.

Favorite Faculty Member: Through his advising and facilitating opportunities, particularly for my study abroad experiences in the Gambia, Dr. Emil Nagengast has made a huge difference in my life. The first day I went to him to choose my classes, Dr. Nagengast invited me to participate in the Gambia summer program, and has been providing me with good advice since my first meeting with him. I ended up going to the Gambia for a whole semester, and this experience has profoundly impacted my academic goals and global perspective. Additionally, Dr. Nagengast has pushed me to apply for more scholarships and to extend my academic goals after graduation. His frank advice and insights have been a great influence on my academic career and my life in general.

Honors Received: I am a member of the Juniata Honor Society.

Thank you!

Dear Parents and Friends of Juniata,

Thank you so much for providing me with this financial support. This scholarship has meant a lot to me, particularly this year. My family has gone through some difficult circumstances lately, and with three kids in college next year, all of us truly appreciate the assistance. I've worked hard for my whole life and I understand the value of money and the time and effort it represents. I am so grateful for the financial assistance I've received and the opportunities it has allowed me to pursue here at Juniata.

Sincerely,
Alyson Lush
Class of 2014