Emma K. Newell

     I, Emma Newell, am a 4-H alumnus and inductee into The Ohio 4-H Teen Hall of Fame. My hometown is in central Ohio. I am an alumnus of The Ohio State University, where I majored in agricultural communication and double minored in youth development and international studies, with an emphasis on international relations and diplomacy. I am currently attending the University of Amsterdam to obtain a master of science in international development studies. 

​

     My mission is to be involved and actively working to create an international community that includes all, communicates efficiently, and shares resources to positively develop global citizens. 

     I want to create understanding, connection, and empathy. This network of relationships has the power to activate change by placing names and faces to issues. Research has shown that the best way to eliminate bias and prejudice is through direct contact with marginalized populations. I believe that we face many of the hardships we do today due to not being able to relate ourselves to other parties, and thus comprehend the impact of our actions. However, once an issue is given a human dimension, comprised of personality and depth, it is hard to deny injustices that have occurred. These can include areas of gender inequality, a lack of human rights, poverty, food insecurity, religious tensions, etc. 

​

     With my communications background, I understand the importance of learning someone’s story. It is nearly impossible to determine someone’s needs without first listening to understand. During my coursework, I have learned about different adversities our world faces. I see our world changing and becoming ever more interconnected. Industries are woven together, and the multitude of moving parts within a community contribute to its successes or failures. I feel that it is my responsibility to learn about other’s cultures and pasts so I can be more aware of their challenges and work to strengthen humanity collectively—while still keeping the important individuality that makes us and our regions unique. 

​

     I am no stranger to seeking out different viewpoints and being outside of my comfort zone. I enjoy challenging myself and others when I can see movement towards a common goal. There is something to be learned from every situation. I am not afraid to ask questions and I thrive from sharing my knowledge. 

​

     Upon my commencement in spring 2021, I will be entering the workforce full-time. I hope to find a job where I can best utilize my skill set to raise up vulnerable populations and advocate for equitability. 

​