Sophie Biernacki is an undergraduate student majoring in international studies with a concentration in Europe, and French with honors. She is minoring in Italian language & culture, and textual studies & digital humanities. Biernacki was formally recognized as a member of the 2026 Husky 100 in April.
My Husky Experience has shown me that growth is rarely linear. Growing up in a multilingual family taught me that language connects identity, culture, and community. At the University of Washington, I have built on this perspective by pursuing opportunities in French, Italian, and European studies while continuing to challenge myself. Study abroad has deepened my understanding of how language shapes belonging, and engagement with global organizations has strengthened my awareness of international connections. Through volunteering, leadership, and mentored research, I have now shifted from a consumer of education to a co-creator of it, thus embodying the Husky Experience: different for every student, dynamic rather than static, and while it begins at UW, it does not end here.
Source: Husky 100
Biernacki recently reflected on her time as a student of the Jackson School and the resources that contributed to her success. Here’s what she had to say:
Which Jackson School courses have made an impact on your academic journey?
One Jackson School course that has had a particularly meaningful impact on my academic journey is JSIS 301A, Conflict and Cooperation in Contemporary Europe, taught by Ambassador Jeff Hovenier.
What sets this course apart is the rare opportunity to learn directly from someone with extensive, first-hand diplomatic experience in the European geopolitical landscape. It has strengthened my interest in international affairs, particularly within the European context, and encouraged me to consider how academic knowledge can intersect with practical, on-the-ground experience. Furthermore, it has deepened my understanding of contemporary Europe and also reshaped how I approach the study of global issues.
Who has provided critical guidance or positive influence on your development?
I am grateful to be surrounded by the entire UW community, which has consistently offered encouragement, guidance, and genuine investment in my growth. Faculty, staff, and administrators across the Jackson School, the Interdisciplinary Honors Program, French and Italian Studies, the Mary Gates Endowment, and the Study Abroad Office have all shaped my academic and personal development.
Among them, Dr. Irina Markina-Baum and Dr. Susan Gaylard have gone above and beyond as dedicated mentors, taking the time to understand my goals and challenge me to think more critically. Their guidance stands out not only for its academic rigor, but also for the genuine care and belief they have shown in my potential.
What Jackson School resources would you recommend for students?
One of the most valuable Jackson School resources I would recommend to students is its wide range of guest lectures and visiting speakers. I strongly encourage students to actively seek out these events and check which classes are hosting guest speakers, as these opportunities are often open beyond those enrolled.
Attending these lectures exposes students to a remarkable diversity of perspectives from diplomats, scholars, and practitioners who bring real-world experience into academic spaces. These lectures have consistently been engaging, thought-provoking, and enriching, and I have never walked away disappointed! They often leave you with new ideas, deeper curiosity, and a stronger sense of how your studies can apply in the real world.
What connections have you made during your time at UW or in your community that have broadened your perspectives or shaped your worldview?
During my time at UW, I have found that each experience opens the door to a network of meaningful connections that continue to shape my academic and personal growth. Whether through academic programs, professional opportunities, or social involvement, one activity often opens the door to multiple new avenues of engagement, creating a ripple effect of enrichment and discovery.
What has stood out most is not just the abundance of resources on campus, but also how seamlessly UW has connected me to local, regional, and national organizations, thereby expanding my opportunities far beyond the university. As a result, my worldview has become more nuanced, shaped by both the intellectual environment at UW and the dynamic networks it fosters beyond campus.
What’s next for you?
Although I am not yet halfway through my Husky Experience, I am excited to continue building on the momentum of the academic, professional, and community connections I have begun to form. I plan to further engage with opportunities across the Jackson School, study abroad programs, and interdisciplinary language studies to deepen my global perspective.
I also hope to stay actively involved in the UW community by seeking out experiences that combine academic enrichment with meaningful service, leadership, and research. I also wouldn’t say no to being a Dubs handler!
Learn more about this year’s Husky 100 awardees
