Laya Sumithra drew inspiration and skills from her SDG experience to develop her project, The Literary Diversity Initiative, to enhance the multicultural experience in high school English curricula. January 14, 2025 Laya SumithraA high school student at University School of Milwaukee (USM), Laya Sumithra’s global interests are rooted in her upbringing. “I was born in India, moved to Poland when I was eight, and since 2019, I’ve been in Grafton, Wisconsin. While learning distinct cultures and languages has been challenging, I’ve experienced cross-culture connections with people who I probably would not have met otherwise, and that’s definitely shaped me as a person.” While at USM, Sumithra has leaned into her global interests, participating in Harvard Model Congress, Model UN, and Global Scholars. She also was chosen to work with the Ethical Leadership Program at USM and has volunteered for SEA Literacy in Milwaukee (tutoring refugee students), as well as Summer Ideas at USM, teaching students from USM and nearby schools theater skills such as playwriting, acting, and directing. Sumithra’s interest in global issues led her to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Challenge Program for High School Students at the University of Chicago Harris School of Public Policy. “A family friend who works at the University, Dr. Charanya Muralidharan, shared information about the SDG program with me, and I saw immediately how it aligned with my interest in global affairs and was an opportunity to develop policy skills.” During the program, participants learn the fundamentals of policy research and apply their skills to address real-world inquiries related to the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals. “When it came time to select a goal to explore, I immediately zeroed in on SDG target goal 4.7 B, which focuses on developing global mindsets and multiculturalism within students across countries.” The goal resonated with Sumithra because of her participation in the Ethical Leadership Program at USM. “The program supports projects to improve the school and the greater community, and I had noticed there weren't many books about Asian Americans in our English class curricula. I worked with the English team and got On Earth We're Briefly Gorgeous by Ocean Vuong into our junior curriculum as a trial. I’d like the Asian American community at USM to be able to see themselves represented—and for people who don't identify as Asian American to learn about our experiences.” In addition to developing a better understanding of the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals and demonstrating critical thinking and presentation skills, Sumithra also appreciated the sense of community—and how it thrived after the program concluded. “Many of us still keep in touch. In fact, some participants and I recently launched maGIRLzine, a magazine based on empowering female voices.” When asked what keeps her inspired and motivated to make an impact, Sumithra said three women have been key role models: “My mom, my grandma, and Taylor Swift. First, I would not be in the US without the support of my grandma and mom. They raised me, and even though they are still in India, they are always, always with me. The obstacles my grandma has overcome, and the sacrifices she made to provide a great life for her children and grandchildren, inspire me in every way.” And Swift? “I love her songwriting, but I am especially inspired by how she uses the power she has to uplift community. Her spirit encourages me to keep fighting for issues I'm passionate about.” As for what’s next for Sumithra, she pointed to her recently launched The Literary Diversity Initiative. “Although it grew out of the Ethical Leadership Program at USM, it was during SDG that I realized diversity in academic reading materials does not just pertain to my school community. With The Literary Diversity Initiative, we share monthly book recommendations focused on Asian American stories. I’ve also hosted a book drive and partnered with a local refugee tutoring center to help them feel a part of the American community.” Most exciting, perhaps, Sumithra shared that she was contacted by the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction. “I was offered a position on their Act 266 Workforce, which focuses on mandating the teaching of Asian American history in classrooms across the state, and they are also going to help me with The Literary Diversity Initiative. I’m excited for where this project can go.” Open configuration options Edit Delete Manage display Start making a difference today. Explore our Open Enrollment brochure (30.6 MB) Apply Now Upcoming Events More events Harris Evening Master's Program Information Session Wed., January 15, 2025 | 12:00 PM Harris Campus Visit Thu., January 16, 2025 | 9:45 AM Harris School of Public Policy 1307 E 60th St Chicago, IL 60637 United States Get to Know Harris! Lunch and Learn at the Urban Labs Thu., January 16, 2025 | 12:00 PM Urban Labs at the University of Chicago 190 S La Salle Street Floor 26 Chicago, IL 60603 United States
Open configuration options Edit Delete Manage display Start making a difference today. Explore our Open Enrollment brochure (30.6 MB) Apply Now