By Hyun Kim (Kimmy)

Northwestern Class of 2009

GES 2006-2009: 2007- Co-Chair of Open Shutter, 2008-09 Co-Director of GES

Studied abroad at the London School of Economics during Junior Year, Studied abroad in India after Freshman and Sophomore Years

Masters Degree in International Development at London School of Economics

Currently working at a non-profit strategy consulting firm in Washington D.C. (FSG)

Rajni described GES as an incredibly meaningful experience because it emphasized hard work and a commitment to more thoughtful ways to make change. GES influenced her future educational and career paths, ultimately leading her to pursue a degree in International Development and a career in the social sector.  The skills she developed through GES were valuable to her future work, as so much of the work environment is mimicked by GES. She credits GES to helping her build a variety of skills–project management, team building, developing a curriculum, the list goes on and on.

GES significantly impacted her volunteer work abroad. “GES helped me make sense of those experiences,” and conversations with delegates and staff were useful in unpacking the challenges and realities of working in the developing world.  GES helped her become more critical going in and be more thoughtful when coming back from her travels abroad. She described GES as a “transformative experience,” and is confident that it has only grown to support the passions and good intentions of young people around the world to do more meaningful work in the future.