Jennifer Kalbourji ’14
Jennifer Kalbourji
Blackstone Academy ’14
Mount Holyoke College ’20
Psychology & Education
“I took a class in racism and inequalities in schools and society and it ignited a passion for education. I chose psychology as an additional major in order to better understand how people’s minds work.”
Graduated from: Blackstone Academy Charter School. Campus involvement: “I am part of the first-generation low income partnership (FLIP). We work to support FLIP students in different ways. Currently we plan on starting a student-led, student-organized panel on demystifying college. One of the topics is studying abroad and the misconceptions these students have about it. We also work in student financial services, where we help FLIP students learn more about financial matters that relate to their college experience.” What she is up to this summer: “I am interning for the executive director at Blackstone Academy Charter School. I am analyzing educational policy information in order to influence school policy. This internship is funded by Mount Holyoke College.” Advice for high school Crusaders entering college: “Stay open minded and take risks in life!” Where do you want to be 5 years from now? “In a new city, working a full-time job with an awesome network of friends and mentors and living happily.” What does being successful mean to you? “Being financially stable, being comfortable with who I am, and living up to my potential.” One thing you miss about being a kid: Having her summers off and just relaxing at home. What qualities do you value in a person? Honesty, trust, encouragement, and self-security. If you go anywhere in the world, where would you go? “New Orleans. This year I went on a cross-country road trip with my friend and was only able to see New Orleans for two days. I want to go back to experience the culture and people more thoroughly.” Favorite quote: “Don’t treat others the way you want to be treated, but treat them the way they wanted to be treated.”