Kahlila Barnes is double-majoring in Legal Studies and Political Science and getting certificates in Gender & Women’s Studies and Criminal Justice.
- Why did you choose GWS?
I decided to add a GWS certificate to my course load because feminism and the struggle of women and LGBTQ+ individuals have always been important to me. Genuinely, as long as I can remember, I have always been adamant about fighting for the rights of underrepresented and historically oppressed communities, which is why I decided to major in political science and legal studies, but the addition of GWS has been really amazing in allowing me to explore intersectionality, which is so important in law and criminal justice. - Has GWS changed your approach to your involvement (on or off campus) during college? If so, how?
GWS has provided me with tools and perspectives that I carry with me and engage every day. So for that reason, I would not say that GWS has changed my involvement as far as attending events or organizations, but it has changed my perspective and how I approach being involved. - How has GWS shaped your future plans?
My plans have not changed because of GWS, but I feel that I am more prepared to eventually attend law school and enter the workforce as an attorney because of the experiences I have had in the program. I really feel that this program has made me a better person and helped me develop a well-rounded understanding of social justice.