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With Thanksgiving approaching, for many it’s a time where friends and family come together, and it’s also a time to recognize the people we are thankful for. Alena Botros talked to USC students about the women who have changed their lives by inspiring and empowering them.
Women are continuing to make strides in all areas. This year, Kamala Harris became the first female vice president. Kathrin Jansen headed COVID-19 vaccine research and development for Pfizer. Greta Thunberg at 17 is one of the youngest climate change activists. But, how did they get to where they are today? Who were their role models? More than half of USC’s student population is female, and we wanted to know who inspires them.
Arianna Werner is a junior majoring in Middle Eastern studies to better understand her own background and that of the woman who inspired her, her mother
Werner: She came here from Iran post revolution. She had a really difficult time coming here and getting citizenship, and she’s a pharmacist now. So, I feel like if she can overcome all those obstacles, I can do anything, especially with all the opportunities she’s given me… I’ve always been interested in the Middle east… I can look at Iran, and look at all the circumstances my mom did have to go through, and it makes me appreciate it more I guess.
For Sophomore Anusha Vadlamani, it’s the stories she was told as a child that inspire her. Vadlamani says that hearing those stories led her to major in international relations. And she’s grateful to the woman who told them…
Vadlamani: My grandma is probably my biggest inspiration. She does a lot for the people around her in her life. And, she is really selfless in the aspect that there’s a lot going on in her own life, but she always prioritizes other people first
Educators play a pivotal role in the lives of many young women, and Sara Dina, a freshman majoring in theatre, explains just how important they’ve been for her.
Dina: My 11th grade English teacher, Ms. Dorsan inspires me… When I was having a horrible day, after having issues with a family member, she let me cry in her classroom…She helped me edit my college essays which got me into USC, so I’d definitely say that’s a huge impact on my life, I don’t know if I would’ve had good enough college essays to get in if it weren’t for her
A beloved mentor can bring out the best in us, even when they’re not here. Paige Hewlett says her Mom inspired her….
Hewlett: She passed away from cancer, but she fought pancreatic cancer for eight years and she never let it stop her from being an amazing mother and hard worker…
Paige Hewlett is now a junior majoring in philosophy, politics and law.
Hewlett: She always helped children no matter what, any problems they had they’d always go to her… Which is why I want to become a lawyer…
The most influential women don’t have to be in positions of power, they’re all around you, each and every day. The power of women is undeniable. And, this Thanksgiving might be a good time to thank them.