Kayla Buth is double-majoring in Political Science and Legal Studies and getting certificates in Gender & Women’s Studies and Social Justice Education. Kayla received the prestigious UW Global Gateway Fellowship for Spring 2024 and will be studying abroad at University of Leeds in England.
1. Why did you choose GWS?
I decided to take a GWS course, GWS 410 with Professor Anna Campbell, early in my educational career. While the course focused on feminist art, it provided a perspective that made me more aware of contemporary challenges faced by women, issues I hadn’t initially recognized. This experience inspired a slight shift in my career path. Post-graduation from law school, my aim is to embark on a journey into reentry reform, specifically focusing on women and LGBTQIA+ individuals. Subsequently, I’ve enrolled in several more GWS classes, each of which has been profoundly eye-opening, thought-provoking, and emotionally impactful. Moreover, navigating GWS has been seamless while pursuing a double major in legal studies and political science. The topics and themes explored in these classes often intersect with those in my other majors.
2. Has GWS changed your approach to your involvement (on or off campus) during college? If so, how?
GWS has absolutely transformed my approach to engagement, both on and off campus. It has exposed me to various areas that require reform and advocacy. As a result, I’ve been motivated to begin my participation in government and politics to learn how change can be enacted from within. To go more in-depth, I served as a campus organizing intern for the 2023 Wisconsin Supreme Court Election and interned at the Wisconsin State Capitol this past summer. I aspire to carry forward this commitment to advocacy and reform in my future career and throughout my journey in law school.
3. What are you most looking forward to experiencing during your study abroad?
I am thrilled about my upcoming semester studying abroad. What excites me the most is the opportunity to learn about the formation and development of the legal institutions in England, considering that the legal systems in the United States have been influenced by such structures. I anticipate that this exploration may highlight places where the Criminal Justice System in the United States could be reformed to make it a more just and equitable system.
4. How does your GWS education prepare you for a semester abroad?
My GWS education has equipped me for my upcoming semester abroad in various ways. Beyond enhancing my critical thinking and problem-solving skills, my coursework has ignited a passion for exploring diverse legal and political institutions globally. This preparation extends beyond academic success, positioning me to thrive not only in school but also in general exploration.
5. How has GWS shaped your future plans?
Before beginning my GWS studies, I knew my goal was to attend law school and engage in institutional reform post-graduation. However, I lacked clarity on where my passion and skills would align most effectively. Through GWS courses, I’ve discovered that my true passion lies in criminal justice reform, particularly for women and LGBTQIA+ individuals. This newfound clarity has not only inspired me but has also laid out a path where I feel both motivated and prepared to make true change.