Solange Aguilar is an undergrad in the Jackson School of International Studies whose interest in international affairs was sparked while working for the International Programs Office at Cascadia College and interning for the Immigration Court of Seattle. Her work experience lead her to pursue a major in International Studies and a minor in Human Rights, as well as mastering Portuguese as her third language. In addition to her studies Solange enjoys traveling, being an ambassador for ShelterBox USA, and participating in fundraisers and community service events with the Mill Creek and Lake Forest Park Rotary Clubs.
Solange’s interest in world affairs has greatly influenced her academic and career goals. “It fascinates me to learn about the representation of countries in the international community and how diverse the cultural landscape is”, Solagne explains. In addition to the Jackson School courses she takes, Solange studied abroad in Berlin in 2016. While abroad she worked with a group that focused on designing alternative housing for Turkish refugees in Berlin. “After working with these refugees”, Solange recounts, “I felt that my European experience wasn’t over yet.” This experience inspired her to then apply to participate in a Jackson School program hosted by Harvard University’s Center for Hellenic Studies and the American College of Greece focusing on the role of travel and migration for Greece and the Balkans.
After completing her degree, Solange plans to use her skills to improve diplomatic and foreign affairs where new educational programs can be developed. She aspires to work either for the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) or the U.S. Government as a Foreign Service officer.”I’m fully prepared”, she states, “to contribute as a University of Washington Husky, and ready to add to the rich academic history.”