Natalia Torres

2023 Newman Family Scholarship Recipient

My name is Natalia Torres, and I am a rising junior majoring in International Studies (Global Security) and Information Science with a certificate in Political Science.

Becoming an International Studies student has provided me with an educational foundation that has enhanced how I continue to explore the world. Integral to the International Studies major’s mission is to provide a holistic education to students, something extremely valuable and necessary when addressing and working with multifaceted global issues. Such values are evident in how I continue to pursue my International Studies degree, in which I developed my passion for understanding the intersections between global issues and information and communication technology (ICT). I am interested in examining ICT in development (ICT4D), memory studies, connection to one’s political and social identity, and its influence during times of conflict. Such interest has led me to double major in Information Science in hopes of showcasing how one can merge two fields to understand and solve global issues.

I have witnessed and felt the utmost care for students to reach their fullest potential, shaping how I seek to expand my academic potential outside the classroom setting. Throughout the 2022-2023 academic year, I have had the opportunity to be a part of the Undergraduate Research Scholar (URS) program aiding in research to explore how Spanish-language radio shows influence Latino political participation in the United States. Involving myself in research has allowed me to build on skills and work to understand marginalized communities. As this academic year is approaching an end, I am excited to utilize the values and learning objectives central to the International Studies major as I prepare to become an exchange student at The University of Leeds in the United Kingdom for the upcoming academic year. 

Finally, I want to showcase my utmost gratitude to the Newman Family for understanding the importance of women in International Studies and acknowledging the immense influence women can and continue to present in their communities and beyond. This scholarship demonstrates the importance of supporting those who wish to work in the field or issues related to International Studies. Being awarded this scholarship with such an incredible cohort of women is truly an honor and a highlight of my time here at the University of Wisconsin–Madison.