1. What is a typical day in the life of Amanda Battle?
I start every day with the snooze button and a medium Dunkin iced coffee. I’m usually out and about by 9 am—either in Ac West for a political science class or in the basement of the lib finishing a last minute reading assignment. After class, I can be found in the Bison enjoying some breakfast food (usually the Smile Value meal) and reading The SKIMM. The afternoons are typically crazy. If I’m not at Mock Trial working on criminal defense case theory, I’m probably at BSG in a Student Advocacy meeting, or working with the Social Justice Residential College. At night, you can find me eating pizza with my best friends, doing homework in Academic West, or at the gym running (if I’m lucky enough to find some time). If it’s a Thursday night, I’m usually awake watching Grey’s Anatomy or Scandal (ily Shonda Rhimes). And if I’m really, really lucky and have my life moderately together, I’m in bed before midnight.
2. What made you want to get involved in Bucknell Student Government?
My interest in student government stems for my desire to make our Bucknell experience the best it can be. I strongly believe that we, as students, have more power and control over our education, campus culture, and Bucknell experience than we realize. We can begin to fix and improve some of the largest problems on our campus if we simply try to. It is my hope as the Chair of Student Advocacy to empower both my committee and my peers to create impactful, positive change on our campus.
3. How did it feel to lead the Solidarity March and have over 1,000 Bucknellians and Lewisburg citizens participate?
To have 1,000 people support our cause and march in solidarity was inspiring. I have never felt more empowered. I was in awe of our student performers, who showed bravery and courage by sharing their experiences. I was moved by their talent, and was honored to provide them an outlet and audience to break the silence surrounding hate and discrimination in our community. The silence during the march down to Hufnagle Park was surely uncomfortable: but feeling uncomfortable was the goal. Those who face prejudice because of their identity feel that discomfort every day to a much higher degree.
4. What impact do you hope this March made and will continue to make on campus?
It is my hope that this event raised awareness of the implications of our actions (or lack thereof). It is my goal that we will work more diligently as a campus community to create a more inclusive environment that celebrates, rather than ostracizes, diversity.
Quick questions:
Pumpkin Spice or Chai: Chai (not the latte–just the tea)
One thing on your Bucknell bucket list: To order every pre-created pizza from Domino’s
Little known fact: I didn’t try peanut butter until I was 17 years old.