Name: Michaela Gawley
Year: 2018
Hometown: Port Washington, NY
Majors/Minors: Politics major, Legal Studies minor
Her Campus: What are you involved in on campus?
Michaela Gawley: I’m really involved in the Waltham Group and am super passionate about it!
HC: Can you tell us a little bit more about your involvement in Waltham Group?
MG: I first got involved in Waltham Group my midyear semester and I helped start a weekly teen mentoring program at a local public housing community. I’m also a coordinator for Kids Connection, which runs after school programs. I also have been involved in helping organize Halloween for the Hungry and the Spring Wellness Drive.
HC: What advice would you give to first-years about Brandeis?
MG: The first piece of advice I would give to first-years at Brandeis is to not feel any pressure to pick a major. I didn’t even start to think about what I wanted to major in until my sophomore year, and during freshman year I only took classes that interested me. I tried to expose myself to all different types of courses and I’m so glad that I did. The second thing I would say is to get involved on campus with something you are passionate about because that’s the best way to meet awesome people. Throwing myself into the Waltham Group really helped with me with adjusting to college because it’s something separate from the pressures of academics and social life that makes me so happy.
HC: What has been one of your favorite Brandeis experiences?
MG: All the times that Dunkin Donuts was actually open
Quick Facts
Favorite song of the moment: “Please Don’t Stop the Music” – it’s so old, but it’s my go-to workout song
Favorite quote: “I’ve been absolutely terrified every moment of my life – and I’ve never let it keep me from doing a single thing I wanted to do” – Georgia O’Keeffe
Favorite food: Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups
Favorite spot on campus: Anywhere with sunshine!
Favorite Boston attraction: Newbury Street