Recent Grads
Jennifer Cytryn '16
My first inspiring look at HWS was at the age of five, long before most people even think about college. That first visit was to my dad’s Hobart reunion and marked the beginning of my recognition of something special about the Colleges. I saw a closeness and love not only to an institution, but also to a community that spanned decades, and camaraderie with both fellow alums and faculty. My perspective of HWS didn’t stop there; I was fortunate to see the same connectedness in the relationships forged by my sister as she began her first year in 2010. It was these moments that allowed me to realize that HWS was more than just a beautiful lakeside campus– it was the perfect fit for me.
My first year, I immediately immersed myself in the Leadership Program, HWS Leads, which fostered my ongoing passion of getting involved in public service and holding leadership positions. I learned the foundation of leadership through the mantra: leading self, leading others and leadership through action. Influenced by the program, I became involved in other volunteer positions including: orientation mentor to assist first year students in their transition to college, volunteer at Cozy Days Preschool, and global ambassador for the abroad program in Scotland.
I majored in international relations with a focus in global security and diplomacy. From my studies, I was able to understand the advantages and consequences of various policies surrounding foreign relations, domestic issues, globalization, and immigration. In 2014, while abroad in Edinburgh, Scotland, I applied what I learned in the classroom and lived through the events surrounding the historic referendum on the sovereignty of Scotland. Finally, observing the great devotion to public service of former HWS President Mark Gearan further enhanced my interest in this arena. Given my increasing interest in politics, I was determined to make it to Washington D.C., so I could learn the ins and outs of the political “machinery” that influences, regulates and preserves our democracy and its prominence in the world.
However, it was Professor of Philosophy Scott Brophy’s Crime and Punishment class, where I developed an interest in analytical thinking and logical argumentation. My interest in policy, in combination with my newfound interest developed through Professor Brophy’s class, led me to pursue the field of law. After graduation, I worked at the Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office. Then, I made my way to the place that runs the “machinery” of our great democracy— 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue.
I was fortuitously selected to be an intern in the White House with the Domestic Policy Council, and later transitioned to a staff role in the Office of the Senior Advisor for Policy. I had the honor of walking through the White House gates every morning to start my workday at the highest level of the public service sector. I researched key policy concerns and learned from some of the most devoted public servants. My time at the White House stoked my interest in an array of domestic policy issues.
The unique opportunity of working in the White House exposed me to the process and methodology of policy making at the federal level. Having the chance to serve my country— something that is bigger and beyond me— was truly an incredible experience.
HWS provided me with the foundation and tools to enjoy an understanding and appreciation of how policy is enacted regardless of partisan politics. This incredible journey has led me to embark on a career to serve individuals, with law as the vehicle. I have been exposed to the immense challenges facing our society, and earning a law degree will provide me with the skills needed to fulfill my civic responsibility and seek justice.