Claire James

2021 Newman Family Scholarship Recipient

My name is Claire James and I am a junior majoring in International Studies and Economics with a certificate in French. I am also a member of the Wisconsin International Scholars Program and the College of Letters and Sciences Honors Program, an editor for the Journal of Undergraduate International Studies, and an active member of UW–Madison’s Women in Economics chapter. Growing up in a small town, my high school French language classes allowed me to see the world through new eyes. Spending two weeks in China through an exchange program with a local university solidified my desire to grow as a global citizen and incorporate an international element into my undergraduate studies and ultimate career choice. My language skills and international experiences in high school led me to search for a university that not only offered a diverse and challenging International Studies curriculum, but also dedicated and accessible faculty and the opportunity to positively impact the wider university community.

The International Studies major has been one of the best parts of my undergraduate experience at UW–Madison. The coursework provides ample opportunity to carve one’s path within the major and take classes that link language, country, and cultural interests. I have had the privilege to learn from professors who bring the world to the classroom. I have also spent time working with learners of all ages both on and off-campus. My experience helping young students improve literacy skills, introducing international students to life in the United States and preparing them for study at American universities, and virtually meeting with English language learners during the pandemic to practice conversation has inspired me to advocate for equitable education for all types of students. As a language learner myself, I have personally experienced both the frustrations and the joys that come with learning something challenging. It is an understanding I will always carry with me.

I will be studying abroad in France during the fall of 2021 and could not be more excited to put the competencies I have strengthened through my International Studies major and coursework to good use. After graduating from UW–Madison, I plan to teach English abroad and then earn a graduate degree in public policy or economics. I hope to pursue a career with a focus on issues of poverty, economic diversification, and sustainable development. In my roles as an educator on campus, I have come to realize that change can be fueled by substantive educational opportunities. I truly have the International Studies major to thank for some of the most eye-opening experiences as an undergraduate and am grateful for the Newman family’s support of women in the International Studies major.