Meet Our Program Alumni: Kaitlyn Viola
Kaitlyn Viola '22 holds a bachelor's degree in Law & Society, with a minor in Psychology.
Where are you from originally?
I am originally from Belmar, New Jersey.
What was the best part of your time at Jefferson?
The best part of my time at Jefferson was becoming so intimately familiar with classmates and professors. Particularly, I felt lucky to have been provided the space and setting to learn from my professors not only in class but also outside of class. Many of my professors were willing to meet to discuss their career paths and experiences thus far in academia, and even provide advice and guidance when requested.
What has having a Jefferson degree done for you/how has it prepared you for your career?
Having a degree from Jefferson left me well-equipped to tackle some of our nation’s toughest political questions from an intersectional perspective. My experience at Jefferson, including my coursework, involvement in clubs and organizations, and leadership positions allowed me to develop myself as a confident and well-informed future leader in the professional sphere.
What are you doing now?
I currently live in Washington, D.C., where I am in the midst of obtaining my Master’s Degree in Public Policy at American University.
What’s something people would be surprised to find out about you?
I am a first-generation college student, which means I am the first in my family to attend and graduate from a four-year university!
What’s one piece of advice you’d give to our current students?
Take on leadership positions and leave your comfort zone whenever possible. The best way to build confidence is to do things that make you proud of yourself. Push your limits and ask for help. If you find yourself noticing that someone has yet to do something on campus that you find important, do it yourself! There are likely many other students who may want to embark on a new journey with you, whether it be a movement, club, or even a new course!