Lily Sussman - Class of 2010

Why did you choose this major, and does/did it seem like the right major for you? Why?

I applied as undecided and was instantly intrigued by IAF after seeing an illustration on their website. It was a web--sociology, anthropology, language, political science, human services, and economics. IAF was was in the center.

Why did you choose NU? Was/is this the right school for you?

It's all about the co-op, location....and I might have considered the figure skating team! I've been reaffirmed in my choice many times over.

How many co-ops have you completed?

I completed two.

Can you list the companies and give a quick synopsis of what you did?

My first co-op was at New England Council (Washington D.C.) as an Administrative Associate. The highlight was attending congressional hearings and writing reports for the council's clients and websites. I did a lot of research, writing, and handled some administrative tasks such as answering the phone and updating contact sheets.

My second co-op was at Resettlement Legal Aid Project (RLAP)(Cairo, Egypt) as a Community Intern, Iraqi Resettlement Project. RLAP is a nonprofit that assists refugees in negotiating the very long and complicated resettlement process. At RLAP I interviewed refugees and wrote testimonies, created and managed English classes, interviewed and hired new interns, and started a cooking class as a fundraiser.

If you participated in co-op, what were the highlights/great learning opportunities you gained?

There is nothing like moving to another city or country and doing everything from finding a place to live, to learning job responsibilities and establishing a social life. Neither was just about the "job" they were holistic learning experiences that helped me grow and develop as a person.

Did you have any other "learning from outside of the classroom" (service learning, student leadership, study abroad, research, or volunteering) that also enriched your time here?

I participated in Professor's Sullivan's Egypt dialogue in 2008. In 2009 I was a member of the Middle East journalism dialogue. Professor Sullivan and Professor Hempel led us on a journalistic adventure in Egypt, Syria and Qatar.

Have you Graduated from NU? If Yes, please let us know what you are doing and if you think your co-ops and experiential education have helped you in your career path.

I graduated May 2010 and was accepted to Teach for America. I currently work at Urban Prep Academy for Young Men on the South Side of Chicago. Co-ops definitely gave me the leadership qualities for which TFA searches.

Questions Answered as of 11-6-2010