Margaret (Maggie) Rowe

2020 Newman Family Scholarship Recipient

My name is Margaret (Maggie) Rowe and I am a junior majoring in International Studies. My interest in international relations and global development began in high school when I became the first ever student to graduate from Oshkosh West High School from the Global Scholar Program with a Global Achievement Education Certificate. Through this program I realized my interest in international human rights, equality, and sustainability. From then on, I have strived to be an advocate in my community and a responsible citizen of the world.

My background in global education motivated me to major in International Studies and since the first day I stepped foot on the UW campus, I have been an IS Major. When I began my academic career at UW–Madison, I wanted to focus my efforts on studying human rights, hoping to eventually develop a career in human rights advocacy. My goals have remained constant and my International Studies education has only further inspired me to work towards eradicating international inequalities and to be a voice for those who have been left voiceless.

In spring 2019 I studied abroad for six months in Galway, Ireland at the National University of Ireland-Galway. This experience completely transformed my view of international relations, culture, and global networks. Since then, I have secured a scholarship for summer 2020 to work at the Irish Centre for Human Rights (ICHR). In this position I will be collaborating on research projects and communicating with Irish government entities and nonprofits on comprehensive human rights strategies.

After I graduate, I would like to work for a non-profit in Ireland, focusing my efforts on human rights, environmental degradation, and environmental health. I hope to work as an advocate for international equality and strive to apply all the core concepts my International Studies Major has taught me. I want to thank the Newman Family for their generosity and for this amazing opportunity.