October 7, 2004

Pop quiz: Nayna Gupta

Sophomore, Weinberg College of Arts and Sciences

Interned for Rep. Jan Schakowsky on Capitol Hill. Has become interested in African and Middle Eastern history. Hopes to work in education policy or law.

photo by Stephen Anzaldi

Have you tried something new at Northwestern?

I’m Indian, but I’ve become involved in the African-American community here. Two of my close friends are black and are involved in student organizations. I’ve really enjoyed this because a lot of times people seem to get stuck in their own social circles. I’m hoping to write for Blackboard, the black student magazine.

What surprised you about working on Capitol Hill?

We always hear about all the hard work members of Congress do. But I found out how hard staffers work behind the scenes. They work long days, as many as 15 hours a day, researching policy, analyzing legislation, talking with interest groups and constituents, and just making sure their Congress person is informed and equipped to vote. It’s public service at its best.

Did the behind-the-scenes work change your opinion of politics?

A lot of people ask if I got discouraged. But I didn’t. I’m even more motivated to get involved now. I saw a lot of things I disagree with and I learned it’s possible to make changes in government.

Is this a good place to accomplish your goals?

I want to work in education policy or law. But whatever I decide to puruse, I’m always especially motivated to work hard because I am surrounded by diversity. I don’t mean just diversity of skin color or nationality, but rather diversity in interests. We have musicians, actors, journalists, and engineers. And all of these people are passionate and dedicated to those interests. That’s inspiring.

What have you learned at Northwestern?

I’ve become a huge history buff here. I’ve found myself especially interested in African and Middle Eastern history. With the current political climate, I think it’s so important to understand the past of these areas since they’re often misunderstood.

— Stephen Anzaldi