Emily is a math and environmental studies double major so our paths have crossed many times in different math classes and at department events. I’ve really gotten to know Emily this year through our study/work sessions and she has such a great energy. Emily is also involved in a lot of really cool events/organizations on campus I thought would be interesting to learn more about!
Image courtesy of Emily Barry
Pronouns: She/her
Major: Math & Environmental Studies
Class: 2019
What’s something people should know about you?
I love to use a whole bunch of silly phrases! Like coolio, bomb rockin’, hurts like heck, cool beans, awesome sauce, etc. It’s fun to throw people off with something weird and completely unexpected.
What’s something people should know about you? (answered by a friend)
Emily is so smart and driven. I feel so lucky to have her as a classmate and friend! I’m also amazed by her time management skills; she always manages to go to bed at a reasonable hour and get a decent amount of sleep.
Why did you choose Bryn Mawr, and why did you choose to stay?
When I was applying to college, I knew that I was interested in a women’s college. I toured many, but ultimately fell in love with Bryn Mawr. Everyone I interacted with was really kind to me, and all the amazing programs and opportunities drew me in. Although my transition to Bryn Mawr was difficult, I chose to stay because of all the amazing people – friends and professors alike. I felt like I was fully supported at Bryn Mawr and there would always be someone to have my back.
What’s your favorite memory from your time at Bryn Mawr?
Lantern Night my freshmen year. It was extremely strange to be walking around in the dark in graduation robes while everyone around us was completely silent, but as soon as I heard my lantern placed behind me and I picked it up, everything seemed a lot less strange and I truly felt home. Lantern night is still my favorite tradition – passing light onto others each year is simply beautiful.
What’s your favorite way to relax? / What’s your favorite method of self-care?
It depends on my mood, but either going for a walk on the nearby Haverford College Nature Trail, reading a good book or watching a totally cheesy and dramatic movie. I am also a firm believer in a good night sleep – it’s the best for self-care, and it’ll help you refresh for your next day.
Explain your role with Civic Engagement and how you got involved.
I’ve been working as one of Civic Engagement’s volunteer coordinators for two years. I’m responsible for recruiting, training, and supporting Bryn Mawr volunteers that tutor at ACLAMO Family Center in Norristown. I became involved in this role by starting out as a volunteer. I knew when I came to Bryn Mawr that I wanted to find a program where I could work with kids on a regular basis, so when I found ACLAMO after-school tutoring, I knew it was something I wanted to commit to. So after two years of volunteers, I became one of the volunteer coordinators!
Any interesting/upcoming Civic Engagement activities you’d like to highlight?
Civic Engagement has so many amazing events going on on campus as well as cool programs to get involved in! These range from ACLAMO after-school tutoring, working in the college’s garden, learning about beekeeping, helping people with their taxes and registering people to vote. In addition to these regular events, Civic Engagement encourages students to get involved in the community and will help pay for part of transportation costs.
What are your favorite spots in Bryn Mawr or Philly?
I really love Ashbridge Park, which is a short walk away from Bryn Mawr. It’s a nice little sanctuary that’s close while being somewhere other than campus. But when I am on campus, I love to either lay in the hammocks when it’s not too cold out or cozy up in my dorm common room.
What are some things you’re up to, and how can we support you?
I also have another job working as a sustainability coordinator on campus. We’re always trying to encourage people to be aware and reflective of how they consume. You can support us by reflecting on and minimizing your carbon footprint – turn off your lights, lower the heat in your room, use less take-out and print double-sided! Every little thing counts.