 Justin is a political science major who was named a 2006 Truman Scholar  . His campus activities include Honors College, campus recycling taskforce, Political Science Club, College Democrats, Delta Chi Fraternity, Students’ Association Senate, Model United Nations, Catholic Campus Parish, Mortar Board, Golden Key, Campus Women’s Coalition, interning in the South Dakota State Legislature, and interning in the House Office of U.S. Representative Stephanie Herseth in Washington, D.C.
What is your career goal?
I hope to work in Washington, D.C., for a couple years for the federal service. Then I plan to attend law school as a prelude to a career with the federal government, hopefully culminating in a position on the federal judiciary.
What has been the biggest surprise about SDSU?
I’ve always thought of myself as more of a "big college, big city" type. A lot of my friends from back home went to such universities, and would often come back and berate me for not joining them. But now, whenever I travel throughout the country, I’m proud to call SDSU my university. There are just certain opportunities--namely the one-on-one contact with professors--that would not be available at a large public institution elsewhere. The character of the campus and the people both make SDSU unique.
How have you changed since you came to SDSU?
I’ve gained a lot of friends, become more worldly-wise and gained a lot more confidence. This school has done an amazing job of placing things within my reach that I never could have otherwise attained. It’s changed my perspective on life, making me a more rounded, even-handed individual.
Describe one college achievement you're especially proud of.
I was quite humbled to receive the Truman Scholarship, but I think the achievement I'm most proud of is helping to create a recycling program on campus. The people volunteering to see this program succeed have been great, the response from campus has been completely positive, and I hope this contribution will last long after I've left SDSU. I'm doing my best to make that a reality.
What advice do you have for students for their first year of college?
Get involved in as many activities that interest you as possible! It’s the best way to meet people who share your interests. You can begin to appreciate your overall experience here only when you’re heavily involved in the activities that are the lifeblood of SDSU. |
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