Year: Senior
Major: Human Development and Family Studies
Minors: Psychology, Sexuality & Gender Studies
Hometown: Philadelphia, PA
HC: So, I know for a fact that you are the epitome of a college Wonder Woman because you truly do it all. Could you give us a breakdown of what organizations and clubs you are in and what your positions are?
KC:
President: Keep a Child Alive
Resident Assistant: Ally House
Research Assistant: Family Relationships Project
Facilitator: Straight Talks Panel
Board Member: Commission on Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Equity
General Body Member: National Council of Negro Women
Ronald E McNair Scholars Post Baccalaureate
National Residence Hall Honorary
Health and Human Development Honor Society
…trust me is sounds a lot worse than it really is!
HC: What was your most rewarding achievement while here at Penn State?
KC: My most rewarding experience would be when I was crowned as the 2014-2015 Homecoming Queen. While being named the first queer and fifth African American queen, I had the opportunity to shed light on so many organizations on campus.
HC: Can you tell me a little more about “Keep a Child Alive” and your experience as the program’s president?
KC: While serving as the president, I have had the opportunity to work alongside several individuals who are also passionate about educating the community, fostering discussion and fundraising for children and families affected by HIV/AIDS in countries like Africa and India. With this position, I’ve also had the opportunity to represent the Penn State Chapter of Keep a Child Alive in Cape Town, South Africa as a counseling intern. While abroad, I lead educational interventions on sexuality, gender role and body image to young girls between the ages of 13-18 years old.
HC: Seeing as you have a vast amount of success acquiring leadership positions and special honors, what kind of advice would you give an underclassman that aspires to stand out in future years here at Penn State?
KC: Make sure your involvements speak to your passions and future aspirations. With hundreds of organizations, it’s easy to spread yourself thin. So make sure each one of your involvements assists you in gaining the skills you wish to acquire.
HC: We all know balancing a hectic schedule can get difficult… how do you manage being a full-time student with extracurricular involvement?
KC: Prioritizing is key! Beware of your limits and remember the importance of self-care. You won’t be able to change the world if you aren’t mentally healthy.
HC: Do you ever have time to unwind and relax?
KC: While my time is extremely limited, I do try to make time to relax. Usually this is spent doing yoga or hanging out with friends.
HC: Do you plan on furthering your education beyond undergrad?
KC: Yes! I’m planning on pursing graduate school for Counseling Psychology.
HC: What is your dream job?
KC: My “dream job” actually doesn’t exist at the moment. I aspire to expand the United Nations Women’s Department to include projects focusing on providing LGBTQ equity throughout the world.
HC: Ok so I need to know… since you are constantly attending dinners, conferences and ceremonies, you must have to have quite the wardrobe. What is your go-to store to buy last-minute outfits?
KC: Hmm, for a last-minute outfit I’d run to Clothes Mentor – a shop that has affordable business wear!
HC: What will you miss most about Penn State after you graduate?
KC: I think I will miss Penn State’s dedication to social justice. Whenever there is a social issue either within our community or affecting our nation, I know there will be some sort of protest, fundraiser or educational program. Hopefully, wherever I relocate to, I will have the opportunity to surround myself with several social activists.