Orientation Leaders

Amen Bekele, MPP

• Policy Area of Focus: Economic Policy
• UChicago Email: amenbekele@uchicago.edu
• Hometown: Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
• Undergraduate Institution: Augustana College

Why are you studying public policy at Harris?

I wanted to work on problems that actually affect how people live. Harris appealed to me because of how it approaches that work, with a structure that pushes you to think quantitatively, politically, and practically all at once. I wanted a program that gave me a holistic foundation rather than a narrow one, and this felt like the right place for it.

What has been your favorite class, or which class are you most looking forward to taking at Harris?

My favorite class so far has been American Political Institutions.

Why did you want to serve as an Orientation Leader?

I know how overwhelming it is to start somewhere new, especially when everything, the program, the city, the people, is unfamiliar all at once. I wanted to be a resource for incoming students the way others were for me when I got here.

How can new Harris students make the most of their experience? At Harris, UChicago, or the city?

Say yes more than you think you should. To the event you're not sure about, the conversation with someone you just met, or the trip into a neighborhood you've never been to. Harris and UChicago have a lot to offer, but so does the city, and it's easy to get stuck in Hyde Park if you're not intentional about getting out.

How do you like to spend your free time?

Running, watching movies, and spending time with friends.

Where is your favorite place in Chicago?

Lakeview.

Travis Feltz, MPP

• Policy Area of Focus: Health Policy
• UChicago Email: tfeltz@uchicago.edu
• Hometown: Vancouver, Washington
• Undergraduate Institution: Pepperdine University

Why are you studying public policy at Harris?

I chose to study public policy at Harris to get the skills I need to better support health outcomes for aging populations. My internship at the Department of Aging and Community Living in D.C. showed me how powerful people‑centered, evidence‑based policymaking can be. Human‑centered design shifted my path away from law and toward work grounded in empathy and real community needs. Harris’ data‑driven approach gives me the tools to design impactful, inclusive policy for vulnerable populations.

What has been your favorite class, or which class are you most looking forward to taking at Harris?

My favorite class so far has been Statistics I taught by Professor Moskowitz and I am looking forward to taking Money, Medicine, and Markets: The Financialization of the US Health System.

Why did you want to serve as an Orientation Leader?

I want to be an Orientation Leader because my own Polis leader created a welcoming, connected community that made my first weeks at Harris feel grounded and exciting. She encouraged us to show up for one another, and I hope to bring that same energy to incoming students. Starting the year with a strong sense of community is essential, especially for those new to Chicago or even the U.S., and I’d love to help ease that transition by creating opportunities for students to connect and form friendships that carry them through their time at Harris.

How can new Harris students make the most of their experience? At Harris, UChicago, or the city?

One of the best parts of being a UChicago student is the many free and discounted opportunities to explore the city. With the UChicago ArtsPass, you can visit places like the Art Institute, the Field Museum, and the Museum of Science and Industry at little to no cost, which makes it easy to experience Chicago’s incredible arts and culture scene. Taking the time to get to know the city beyond campus is one of the most rewarding parts of living here.

How do you like to spend your free time?

When the weather’s nice, I love heading to the lake to relax or exploring one of Chicago’s many parks (there are more than 600 across the city). Once it gets colder, I switch to finding a new museum to wander through or revisiting a favorite to see what new exhibits have popped up. Chicago always has something to discover, no matter the season.

Where is your favorite place in Chicago?

My favorite place in Chicago is anywhere along the lakefront. Promontory Point is always at the top of the list; it has one of the best views of the skyline and is one of the most relaxing spots in the city.

Jennifer De la Cruz Guillen, MPP

• Policy Area of Focus: Private Sector Development and Transportation Policy
• UChicago Email: jdguillen@uchicago.edu
• Hometown: Ayacucho, Peru
• Undergraduate Institution: Pontificia Universidad Católica del Perú

Why are you studying public policy at Harris?

As an economist who has worked in Peru's public sector, conducting applied research on private sector development, financial inclusion, and transportation, I have seen firsthand that effective policy requires a holistic approach and that data-driven decision-making can transform lives. I came to Harris to strengthen my quantitative and data analysis skills and deepen my ability to design and evaluate policies from a broader perspective. I was equally motivated by the opportunity to join a diverse and intellectually curious community committed to driving change.

What has been your favorite class, or which class are you most looking forward to taking at Harris?

My favorite professor was Professor Lo, who taught Advanced Microeconomics I. I also really enjoyed Statistics for Data Analysis II. Looking ahead, I am most excited to take the Program Evaluation course.

Why did you want to serve as an Orientation Leader?

I wanted to serve as an Orientation Leader because I believe the first weeks at Harris are fundamental in shaping students' experiences. When I arrived, the sense of community and connection I found made a meaningful difference in my transition, reminding me that before being professionals, we are all humans navigating something new. I hope to help create that same welcoming environment for incoming students by fostering a strong sense of belonging and sharing insights about coursework, student organizations, and life in Hyde Park.

How can new Harris students make the most of their experience? At Harris, UChicago, or the city?

Harris offers many academic, career, and extracurricular resources, and time moves fast. My advice: plan ahead and talk to students in the courses or paths you’re interested in. Each journey is different, so identify what works for you. I also encourage new students to explore the broader UChicago community through activities at International House, the IOP, and more to connect with students across disciplines. To enjoy Chicago, don’t miss swimming in the lake in early September, and take full advantage of the city’s incredible food scene and concerts.

How do you like to spend your free time?

I love exploring Chicago on foot; there’s always a new neighborhood to discover. Food is a big part of that for me, so I’m always on the lookout for new spots.

Where is your favorite place in Chicago?

I love being anywhere by the lakeside. I also enjoy Wicker Park.

Sophia Guo, MPP

• Policy Area of Focus: Energy and Climate Policy, Data Analytics, and Finance for Public Policy
• UChicago Email: sophiag@uchicago.edu
• Hometown: Pullman, Washington
• Undergraduate Institution: University of Washington

Why are you studying public policy at Harris?

I chose to study public policy at Harris because of the program's focus on building a foundational, data-driven understanding of policy implementation and evaluation, especially for complex policy issues related to climate change.

What has been your favorite class, or which class are you most looking forward to taking at Harris?

My favorite classes at Harris so far have been International Climate Policy with Professor Amir Jina and Data and Programming with Professor Chris Clapp.

Why did you want to serve as an Orientation Leader?

I arrived on campus for Math and Coding Camp last summer after a few years in the workforce. My Orientation Leader (thank you, Gregy!) was incredibly helpful in answering our questions about the core, professors, and specializations. He was also very open about discussing the summer internship search and the subsequent job search for second-year students. Our Polis group bonded through activities such as Two Truths and a Lie, the scavenger hunt, and lunches in the quad.

How can new Harris students make the most of their experience? At Harris, UChicago, or the city?

As cliché as it may sound, take care of yourself. In addition to the usual advice about joining RSOs, networking with peers, attending talks around campus, and engaging in coursework, I'll emphasize that self-care, regular exercise, sleep, a healthy diet, and time for yourself and with friends are what will allow you to keep pursuing your ambitions over time.

How do you like to spend your free time?

In addition to knitting, cooking, and going to the gym, I like to explore other neighborhoods when time allows by running errands. I'll open up Google Maps and plan a grocery run in a neighborhood I'd like to explore, or peruse a few thrift stores in search of a few pieces ahead of a classmate's birthday or Halloween party.

Where is your favorite place in Chicago?

On regular weeknights, I enjoy spending time at the Ratner Gym in the dancing and stretching room, but I also love the Midway ice rink in the winter and Grant Park in the summer.

Aashni Jain, MSCAPP

• Policy Area of Focus: Energy and Environmental Policy
• UChicago Email: aashni@uchicago.edu
• Hometown: Kingston, Jamaica
• Undergraduate Institution: William & Mary

Why are you studying public policy at Harris?

I chose to study public policy at Harris because of the curriculum's focus on real-world training. The CAPP curriculum has given me the tools to critically analyze social issues, contribute meaningful analysis, and build solutions. Coming from a learning, development, and research background, I was hoping to get more creative about how I bring public policy into my work, and I knew Harris would expose me to career paths and niches that I had never considered. The possibility of growth and change drew me to Harris, and I have not been disappointed!

What has been your favorite class, or which class are you most looking forward to taking at Harris?

My favorite class so far has been the second part of the two-quarter Applied Computer Science sequence offered as part of the MSCAPP program core curriculum. I was able to work with a group of friends to build a product that said something meaningful about local government effectiveness, and I never thought I would be able to do something like that before Harris.

Why did you want to serve as an Orientation Leader?

I wanted to serve as an Orientation Leader to support new students through a transition that can be destabilizing and nerve-wracking, yet extremely rewarding once they find community. The guidance I received during orientation was critical to finding my place at Harris, and I wanted the chance to pass it on.

How can new Harris students make the most of their experience? At Harris, UChicago, or the city?

I would say making the most of your experience here requires taking advantage of all the opportunities Chicago has to offer, even outside the University of Chicago, and making time to engage with them, whether professionally, socially, or culturally.

How do you like to spend your free time?

I like to read, bake, FaceTime with my friends, watch reality TV, and go to the movies. Since moving here, I've loved a good lakefront trail walk, too.

Where is your favorite place in Chicago?

The entire lakefront trail, especially Promontory Point, is amazing, but I’ve been obsessed with the miniature rooms exhibit at the Art Institute of Chicago for many years, even before I moved here!

Yihao Jiang, MPP

• Policy Area of Focus: Municipal Finance
• UChicago Email: yihaojiang1@uchicago.edu
• Hometown: Linyi, China
• Undergraduate Institution: University of British Columbia

Why are you studying public policy at Harris?

I chose to study public policy at the Harris School of Public Policy because of my long-standing interest in international relations and global politics. Being in this academic environment allows me to stay informed about global political dynamics while developing a deeper understanding of how policy decisions are designed and implemented in practice. The flexibility of course selection at Harris also allows me to pursue and develop the specialized track I am interested in. By taking a variety of courses offered by the program, I was able to determine which track is most suitable for me and develop a clear vision for my potential future career.

The program emphasizes both comprehensive theoretical frameworks and quantitative methods, which help reduce binary thinking about policy issues and encourage more evidence-based analysis. Through this training, I have learned to approach policy questions more cautiously and consider the broader institutional and economic constraints that shape policy outcomes.

What has been your favorite class, or which class are you most looking forward to taking at Harris?

I would personally recommend the course Big Data and Development, taught by Austin Wright. We explored a variety of topics on how datasets could directly solve questions that we cannot solve effectively through traditional methods. Topics included how machine learning can be used to analyze which groups need the most humanitarian aid by using satellite imagery datasets. By analyzing night-light density, housing size, and mobile phone usage, we can estimate economic activity and identify populations with the greatest needs, helping target groups in regions where traditional data is limited or missing.

Why did you want to serve as an Orientation Leader?

By witnessing how Orientation Leaders took the time to answer questions patiently and provide clear guidance, I felt included in a community whose culture is rooted in kindness and warmth. Therefore, I would like to make my own contribution and pass on that kindness. I can imagine that as people move into this new phase, it is very common to face questions about course selection, pre-registration, and building connections. I want to use the experience and insights I have gained here to help incoming students feel welcome.

How can new Harris students make the most of their experience? At Harris, UChicago, or the city?

I would say to treasure the time before winter arrives by simply taking walks around campus and exploring Chicago’s architecture through boat tours. It is also highly beneficial to participate in career fairs and networking events, as they can help foster summer internship opportunities.

How do you like to spend your free time?

Basketball!

Where is your favorite place in Chicago?

United Center!

Grace Kan, MPP

• Policy Area of Focus: Tech and Education Policy
• UChicago Email: kan1@uchicago.edu
• Hometown: Santa Rosa, California
• Undergraduate Institution: Georgetown University

Why are you studying public policy at Harris?  

I am pursuing a Master of Public Policy to create equal access and representation in education for underserved populations. My work in special education exposed me to the daily hardships families face and revealed my desire to develop stronger analytical skills to translate these experiences into scalable policy.

The Harris School of Public Policy offers the ideal environment to align my lived experience with data, as its quantitative rigor matches my background in empathetic leadership. Through this degree, I want to move beyond well-intentioned help and disseminate knowledge and resources that empower students and their communities. Ultimately, by combining Harris' theoretical foundation with my interpersonal skills, I hope to design evidence-based solutions that create lasting impact.

What has been your favorite class, or which class are you most looking forward to taking at Harris?

My favorite class so far has been Micro II with Professor Konstantin Sonin. Despite the rigor of the core, the material was exceptionally well taught, with real-world applications that made complex microeconomic concepts much easier to understand. Professor Sonin was also incredibly engaging, helpful, and often funny—definitely one of my favorite professors at Harris!

Why did you want to serve as an orientation leader?

I wanted to be an Orientation Leader because orientation was such a meaningful introduction to the Harris community for me. Looking back, I’m especially grateful for the connections I built during orientation programming and Math & Coding Camp, and I’d love to help create that same experience for incoming students.

How can new Harris students make the most of their experience? At Harris, UChicago, or the city?

To make the most of your time at Harris and in Chicago, I think it’s important to get out of the Harris bubble and explore the city. Chicago has amazing food and such a strong sense of community that’s hard to find elsewhere in the United States. Having lived here for six years, I’ve come to really appreciate what the city has to offer, and I’m always happy to share recommendations with anyone looking to explore!

How do you like to spend your free time?

I love doing pottery and going to small-venue concerts around the city.

Where is your favorite place in Chicago?

Ukrainian Village or West Town in general! 

Finnegan Keilty, MPP

• Policy Area of Focus: Public Finance and Economic Development
• UChicago Email: finnegank@uchicago.edu
• Hometown: Las Vegas, Nevada
• Undergraduate Institution: Carleton College

Why are you studying public policy at Harris?  

I'm studying public policy to better understand how policy choice depends on public finance, and how different levels of public institutions value, compare, and implement policies and programs. Specifically, I am curious about the relationship between public finance and housing/economic development policy.

What has been your favorite class, or which class are you most looking forward to taking at Harris?

I am most looking forward to a class on Housing Policy in the US taught by Erika Poethig this spring quarter.

Why did you want to serve as an Orientation Leader?

I wanted to serve as an Orientation Leader because having community in graduate school is critical to your success while in school, and afterward, when that community becomes your professional network. I want to help others feel welcomed and facilitate that community building from the first week.

How can new Harris students make the most of their experience? At Harris, UChicago, or the city?

Say yes to things that are new, and don't forget to get out of Hyde Park when you can. Chicago is full of things to do.

How do you like to spend your free time?

You can find me hosting dinner parties and picnics, biking, playing intramural games, or climbing when I'm not working.

Where is your favorite place in Chicago?

Oak Street Beach!

Eemaan Khan, MPP

• Policy Area of Focus: Infrastructure Policy
• UChicago Email: eemaankhan@uchicago.edu
• Hometown: Toronto, Canada
• Undergraduate Institution: Lakehead University

Why are you studying public policy at Harris?

I aim to build a career at the intersection of infrastructure policy and business. My path includes three years in Canadian politics, where I worked with the Minister of Infrastructure, followed by over five years in engineering on infrastructure projects. Harris stood out to me for its quantitative rigor and practical approach to policymaking.

What has been your favorite class, or which class are you most looking forward to taking at Harris?

In the core, I especially enjoyed Analytical Politics I & II. The frameworks for strategic thinking and decision-making significantly sharpened my approach to leadership and complex problems. Looking ahead, I’m excited to take Professor Burrows’ Management Matters course to further develop my understanding of organizational effectiveness and leadership in practice.

Why did you want to serve as an Orientation Leader?

I had an incredibly positive experience during Orientation 2025! It played a key role in helping me feel grounded, supported, and connected as I started at Harris. Serving as an Orientation Leader is my way of paying that forward and helping incoming students navigate the transition with confidence. 

How can new Harris students make the most of their experience? At Harris, UChicago, or the city?

Be intentional about building relationships outside your immediate cultural or national background. Some of the most valuable insights and perspectives come from engaging with people who think and live differently from you. Harris and UChicago offer an incredibly diverse community!

How do you like to spend your free time?

I enjoy staying active by working out at Ratner Athletics Center. I also spend time speaking with prospective students through my role as a Harris Ambassador, and I support Professor Raaj Sah as a research assistant.

Where is your favorite place in Chicago?

My favorite place is the stretch of beach just east of campus along Lake Michigan. The lakefront trail spans roughly 19 miles and offers some of the best views in the city, and is a great place to walk, reflect, or recharge.

Molly Long, MSCAPP

• Policy Area of Focus: Urban, Social, and Environmental Policy
• UChicago Email: mrlong@uchicago.edu
• Hometown: Portland, Oregon
• Undergraduate Institution: Lawrence University

Why are you studying public policy at Harris?

I’m moving into urban policy after working as a biologist and a research administrator. I’ve always enjoyed the quantitative and computational side of research, but I wanted to shift my focus toward helping people more directly. I’m a big believer in the power of civic technology and grassroots organizing, so I’m at Harris to bridge that gap between data science and community impact. I hope to work with a local nonprofit or city or county government, doing data science and development work in policy areas such as transportation, housing, public education, or social welfare.

What has been your favorite class, or which class are you most looking forward to taking at Harris?

I loved Computer Science with Applications II, which is part of the MSCAPP core sequence. I enjoyed completing weekly programming assignments and rapidly learning new Python skills, and I appreciated the engaging lectures by James Evans (who is incredibly experienced and well-respected in the civic tech and open source communities), but my favorite part was the course project, which I completed with some really smart classmates. I'm really proud of the analysis we did on patterns of rideshare use in Chicago, which included advanced visualizations and data management techniques. It's miles beyond anything I could have done before beginning the program, and I'm really proud of what we achieved. The project was also a big factor in landing a summer internship!

Why did you want to serve as an Orientation Leader?

I have lived in Chicago since 2023, and I worked at the university for more than two years before becoming a student, so I bring context and experience around the city and UChicago that I'm excited to share with new students (and especially folks new to Chicago). I have really enjoyed my time at Harris so far and want to help set the class of 2028 up for success. I'm excited to get to know you all!

How can new Harris students make the most of their experience? At Harris, UChicago, or the city?

It's important to try hard in your courses - but not for the grade so much as for the skills you will learn. With the rise of genAI tools, it might be tempting to take shortcuts to the grade you want rather than struggling productively to fully learn the material, but in the long run, this will only hurt you and your colleagues.

Also, get out of Hyde Park and check out other neighborhoods! I've lived in a few different places around the city, and there is so much to see. Take the train to Pilsen, Rogers Park, or Logan Square and spend a day exploring.

How do you like to spend your free time?

Despite the business of life at Harris, I prioritize making time to hang out with friends, cook for people, try out a new cocktail bar, or spend a day at the beach when the weather is nice! I play classical violin in Lakeview Community Orchestra and, when I have the time, play in a string quartet with some friends. I also make time to run or go to the gym most days, which helps me regulate my mood and take care of myself even when things get stressful. On the rare occasion when I finish my readings for class ahead of schedule, I also love to read!

Where is your favorite place in Chicago?

Music Box Theater is a bit of a trek from Hyde Park, but it is my favorite movie theater in the world. I've been a member for two years now, and from recent international art films to repertory series, I love everything they show. I love everything about the place: the staff, the choices of films, the great popcorn, the community of film lovers, the guy who plays the organ before movies start, and the beauty of the historic theater. Chicago has a wonderful film community, and I have really enjoyed learning more about film during my time here. Whether I'm going to a Sunday matinee by myself or a midnight showing with a line out the door with a bunch of friends, I always have an amazing time.

Honorable mentions: The lake, the Empty Bottle (go on Mondays to see 3 great local bands for free), the Museum of Contemporary Art, Ann Sather (for great cinnamon rolls), and Humboldt Park.

Zubair Majid, MPP

• Policy Area of Focus: Data Analytics and International Development Policy
• UChicago Email: zubairmajid@uchicago.edu
• Hometown: Karachi, Pakistan
• Undergraduate Institution: Institute of Business Administration, Karachi

Why are you studying public policy at Harris?

For me, Harris is the perfect blend of diverse perspectives and academic rigor. I truly believe this is the best environment to learn how to tackle the complex policy challenges we face today, both globally and in our own communities.

I was particularly drawn to the quantitative training here. The fact that the MPP program offers 12 electives excites me because I can explore my interests and tailor this journey according to the impact I want to create in the world. Harris' slogan "Social Impact Down to a Science" is what resonates with me the most. Learning the rigor and curiosity of science to tackle the pressing problems I care about deeply is ultimately what brought me to Harris and motivates me every day.

What has been your favorite class, or which class are you most looking forward to taking at Harris?

Statistics II: Data Analytics for Public Policy has definitely been my favorite so far, but Behavioral Policy & Program Design is a close second. I am also looking forward to taking Data & Programming for Public Policy in the upcoming quarter to further refine my ability to analyze policies through an evidence-based lens. 

Why did you want to serve as an Orientation Leader?

I wanted to serve as an Orientation Leader because I understand how overwhelming starting graduate school can be. Moving to a new place, whether from across the country or across the globe, is a significant step, and I want to ensure everyone feels welcome and supported from day one.

I believe that a sense of community and friendship is the most effective way to stay grounded during such transitions. I am excited about the opportunity to provide that support while meeting so many incoming students from different walks of life!

How can new Harris students make the most of their experience? At Harris, UChicago, or the city?

I believe making the most of your experience means being part of both the Harris School community and the larger UChicago student body. The diverse range of offerings, from joining a Harris Student Organization (HSO) that aligns with your policy interests to attending wellness events at the Student Wellness Center or going to the Logan Center for jazz performances, means there truly is something for everyone.

There are also ample opportunities to volunteer, providing meaningful work and helping you understand the city better. Throughout this process, I believe you should also make time for yourself to reflect and mindfully navigate this journey at your own pace. Focus on what you find most important alongside the incredible people you will meet, regardless of which specific opportunities you pursue.

How do you like to spend your free time?

I’m a big believer in the 'reset' day. I always try to keep one day a week just for myself to recharge. During that time, I enjoy taking walks around campus and exploring new cafes and spots I haven't visited yet: UChicago is full of hidden gems!

When I’m not exploring on my own, I’m usually in the kitchen trying to learn a new recipe or heading into the city with friends to explore the city's history and culture. I also make sure to connect with my family and friends back in Pakistan, and there’s no better way to wrap up the week than finally crossing a movie off my never-ending watchlist.

Where is your favorite place in Chicago?

Promontory Point has definitely been a favorite of mine. Going down the limestone steps to sit on a bench and watch the lake under the sun is always refreshing.

Tori Markin, MPP

• Policy Area of Focus: Economic and Urban Policy
• UChicago Email: tmarkin@uchicago.edu
• Hometown: Potomac, Maryland
• Undergraduate Institution: Northeastern University

Why are you studying public policy at Harris?

Prior to Harris, I worked in financial wellness research, where I developed a strong interest in strengthening my quantitative skills in a rigorous academic setting. I also hope to gain a deeper understanding of how to design and implement policies that address economic inequality in the United States.

What has been your favorite class, or which class are you most looking forward to taking at Harris?

I am most excited to take Workplace and Family Policy with Professor Yukiko Asai and Inequality: Theory, Methods, and Evidence with Professor Steven Durlauf.

Why did you want to serve as an Orientation Leader?

I moved to Chicago from New York City, and while I was very excited, the adjustment wasn’t easy. Since then, I’ve found a strong sense of community among my fellow Harris students and within the broader Chicago community. I’m excited to help incoming students feel at home and be prepared to take advantage of everything Harris and Chicago have to offer!

How can new Harris students make the most of their experience? At Harris, UChicago, or the city?

Make sure to take advantage of the many learning opportunities at UChicago, including HSOs, roundtables with professors, research presentations, and career panels. My favorite events this year have been the Stone Center’s Inequality Workshops, which feature leading research on a wide range of inequality-related topics. There are also great opportunities to connect with graduate students from across UChicago through the Student Wellness Center events.

Outside of UChicago, be sure to make time to explore the city! Chicago is full of incredible community events centered around arts, music, and food. Finding a community outside of Harris can make a big difference in helping Chicago truly feel like home.

How do you like to spend your free time?

I enjoy exploring coffee shops across the city, taking dance classes, crocheting, and backpacking. I’m also a community organizer for a nonprofit and love planning events in Chicago.

Where is your favorite place in Chicago?

I love spending time at the lake, whether I’m running along the lakefront trail or relaxing on the beach!

Anne McCarthy, MPP

• Policy Area of Focus: Inequality and Immigration
• UChicago Email: mccarthya@uchicago.edu
• Hometown: Fishers, Indiana
• Undergraduate Institution: Indiana University

Why are you studying public policy at Harris?

My prior work experiences and my partner crystallized for me the impact of policies on everyday life. Especially with immigration, it can mean life and death for people, and so I wanted to be able to impact those policies to create more humane policies.

What has been your favorite class, or which class are you most looking forward to taking at Harris?

I am looking forward to taking Economic Development and Policy, as well as Higher Education Policy, next quarter.

Why did you want to serve as an Orientation Leader?

I wanted to serve as an Orientation Leader because, as someone who tends to be shy in the beginning, my Orientation Leader really helped me feel like there was someone here who cared about me, and I wanted to pass that feeling on to other incoming students. I also love giving advice and would love to share things you can do on campus and around Chicago.

How can new Harris students make the most of their experience? At Harris, UChicago, or the city?

Explore Chicago and the campus! Don't just be at Harris. You are spending money to be at UChicago, so take advantage of everything the campus has to offer, especially the events. Look at your emails (I know this is the hardest), but this will be where so much info is and so much is happening around campus. For Chicago, look for free events, especially in the fall quarter.

How do you like to spend your free time?

I like doing puzzles, playing board games with friends, exploring different neighborhoods in Chicago, and attending free events around Chicago.

Where is your favorite place in Chicago?

The lake/beach in Hyde Park!