When I received an e-mail from the International Studies advisor at my university regarding a scholarship to PLEN’s Women and Policy in the Global Community seminar, I instantly knew I had to apply. The seminar sounded to be right up my alley, and it emphasized my motivation to make a difference in the world we live in. I applied, not thinking I would actually get it, but knew it wouldn’t hurt to at least apply. Finding out that I was a scholarship recipient to attend PLEN’s seminar was an awesome surprise! Not only did I visit a new city, I received the opportunity to network with peers and professionals who have similar values, passions, and motivation as me to make a contribution in society. I know I will be working with these wonderful women I met from across the country sometime in the future!
Listening to influential, women leaders in global politics and nonprofit administration reiterated that I can be a part of this field too. I am not a girl with her head in the clouds, I am a woman with a vision. I felt so honored to have the opportunity to listen to many women with a vision, who expanded my horizon of possibilities and echoed my values. I learned that a career path is not always linear, but that life will always take you to where you are supposed to be. The professionals who spoke to us clearly exuded that as they continue to make amazing strides in their current fields. This seminar reaffirmed my motivation to continue on the path I am taking to make my contribution to the world we live in. I am so grateful to have been a part of this, PLEN further emphasized that this field is what I am supposed to be in, no matter where it may take me. Thank you so much, PLEN!
Veronica Picchi attended the 2015 Women in Global Policy seminar as a senior at the University of Illinois at Chicago. She received a scholarship sponsored by PLEN Board of Directors member Ellie Shaw.