Krissy Naranjo-Rivera '04
Kluge Scholar, Columbia University Scholars Program
Staring at the eager eyes of my classroom full of Brazilian students -- all adults I am teaching to speak, read and write Spanish using Portuguese, their native tongue, as the language of instruction -- it is difficult to believe that just four short years ago I was beginning my ninth and final year at Breck School. Now in my senior year at Columbia University in New York, I can confidently say that the kaleidoscopic array of opportunities and the dynamite teaching I received along with my cap and gown have shaped me and my life path. I left Breck a passionate learner and thinker. Breck provided me with academic skills, opportunities to lead, collaborate with other students, fail and succeed, and, especially, to express myself, create and impact others through art, writing and developing creative projects.
During my four years at Columbia my studies have been focused on International Relations and Human Rights. I have have held internships and worked for the two leading international human rights monitoring and advocacy organizations, Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch, and worked as a teacher and volunteer in impoverished communities in New York City. In addition, I have worked with the Scholars Program, the Black Student's Organization, and America Reads (literacy program for inner city youth). I have also studied abroad in Madrid, Spain and (currently) Salvador, Brazil, where much learning occurs in the day-to-day interactions and observing the persistent social and political struggles that people face. I am passionate about crafting solutions for these problems. My experiences and studies have only further impassioned me to continue my education and get a law degree in international law, which I plan to do after graduating in May of 2008.
My greatest piece of advice to Breck students would be to think critically and always seize new opportunities, especially (as Mr. Hegg says) if they make you uncomfortable. Breck created a safe and dynamic environment in which I was able to do this, and, consequently, I continue to be the passionate student and teacher I am today.
