Student Profile

Psalm B. Juanita Chiu Odyssey Scholar Spotlight: 2015–16

Psalm B. '17

Hometown: Knoxville, TN

“ Because of my time at UChicago, I’ve learned how to be a lot more organized and self-motivated. I’ve gained a lot more confidence in myself and my ability to achieve personal, academic and career-related goals.”

What did you do this past summer? What are the most striking differences between your life during the summer and your life at UChicago?

Last summer I stayed in Chicago and worked as an intern at the CivicLab, a non-profit organization that encourages civic engagement. I would say that a big difference between the summer and the school year is that the summer gives me a chance to focus more of my attention on my career-related goals.

Tell us about your academic interests.

I am currently majoring in social anthropology, but I also have strong interests in human rights and political science. I became interested in these fields of study after taking the Social Sciences core sequence during my first year, which introduced me to a variety of social and political theories.

Please share a significant, memorable experience you had during your time at UChicago this year.

I am currently studying abroad in Oaxaca, Mexico, and taking classes on Latin American civilizations. Two weeks ago, I was able to tour an ancient city called Monte Alban, which is now an archaeological site. It was a really incredible place to visit.

What do you like to do outside of class?

Outside of class I like to play music. I play guitar in a student band on campus. I also like going to concerts around the city. I am also involved in a student-worker solidarity organization called Students Organizing United with Labor. I also participate in a mentoring program on campus called Leaders of Color.

How have you changed (as a student, thinker, citizen, or human) since coming to the University of Chicago?

Because of my time at UChicago, I think that I have become a more open-minded person. I’ve learned how to be a lot more organized and self-motivated. I’ve gained a lot more confidence in myself and my ability to achieve personal, academic and career-related goals.

If you could speak directly to the person who supported your scholarship, what would you say?

If it weren’t for this support, I would not be able to attend the University of Chicago and have access to all of the incredible resources it has to offer. The scholarship has helped me pursue my aspirations without financial burdens holding me back. Thank you.