Stanton College Preparatory School
Jacksonville, Florida
Political Science, History, and Art History
My summer internship with the Department of State demonstrated the importance of intercultural exchange and public diplomacy, efforts that benefit both the United States and our allies overseas.
Impactful experience:
Interning with the Department of State in North Macedonia over the summer of 2019
was far and away my most impactful experience as an undergraduate. It transformed
my understanding of what I wanted in a career, allowed me to visit parts of the world
I would have never seen otherwise, and introduced me to truly inspiring people who
remain my professional and personal role models. I remain incredibly grateful to have
had such an amazing internship.
Enjoy most as a TS:
The lifelong friends I made are far and away my favorite part of being a Top Scholar.
I cannot believe it has been over four years since our year’s scholar weekend- it
feels like I met everyone yesterday. The other Top Scholars became my roommates, sorority
sisters, best friends, travel buddies and much more, defining my college experience.
Story:
Participating in UofSC’s Language Conflict Project redefined my understanding of and
interest in undergraduate research, something I had never considered an option as
a humanities major. Over three years, I researched the development and resolution
of ethnolinguistic conflicts in Norway, Tajikistan, Sri Lanka, North Macedonia, and
Nigeria. I was able to obtain a research grant, present my findings, and use these
experiences to guide my choice of study abroad destinations, internships, senior thesis
topic, and languages studied. Most importantly, I gained a greater appreciation for
the complex interplay of language and ethnicity, something that will serve me well
in my professional life.
Post-graduate plans:
Pending notification from the Fulbright Commission, Jill will attend law school in
the fall.
Career goals/professional aspirations:
After graduating from law school, I hope to receive a federal judicial clerkship and
work for the federal government, ideally in a capacity relating to international law
and national security.