Lauren Hennessey
Degree: History
Minor: Sociology and Media Studies
Lauren Hennessey (she/her) has been recommended as an Outstanding Graduate for the College of Liberal Arts by Academic Success Coordinator Stephanie Nielsen. Most notably, Lauren has been an instrumental asset to the History Department, helping organize the Ram Stories Symposium about COVID-19 student experiences.
Learn more about Lauren’s story below:
1. Why did you choose to study at CSU?
“I chose to study at CSU because I loved the campus – specifically that it felt like a big campus while still being spread out and filled with nature and interesting architecture. I am a Colorado native, and I wanted to stay close enough to my family so that I was able to visit them.”
2. How has your background shaped your experience here at CSU, and what advice would you give to students of similar identities?
“Studying history has made me reflect on my identity as a woman in American society. American history is systematically harsh towards women, and my educational experience has made me want to work especially hard to break out of this system and fight for gender equality. As far as advice goes, I would encourage people to speak up! Continue talking if interrupted during a class discussion, stand up for your beliefs in social circles, and support other women in their endeavors.”
3. What accomplishments from your educational career at CSU are you most proud of? How were you able to accomplish those things?
“I am most proud of the scholarships that I have received, and the research that I have conducted. I was awarded the Harry Rosenburg Scholarship, which is the highest merit-based scholarship that the History department offers. I am also proud of the research I have done through the Ram Stories COVID-19 Oral History Project. This project’s goal is to collect oral history interviews from CSU students who want to share their stories regarding the pandemic. I was responsible for advertising, scheduling, conducting, transcribing, and publishing oral history interviews through the Morgan Library and Mountain Scholar Archives.”
4. What has been the most challenging aspect of your educational career so far? How have you overcome those difficulties?
“The most challenging aspect of my educational career has been continuing to have a productive experience with my education through the COVID-19 pandemic. The pandemic was really challenging to navigate, especially with not being able to attend class, meet new people, join clubs, or have support from professors. This challenge taught me to be self-sufficient and advocate for what I really want. It encouraged me to reach out to internship opportunities and really work towards my goals as I was unable to do that for the majority of the pandemic.”
5. What are your post-graduation plans and goals?
“Post grad, I have accepted a job with the City of Fort Collins Natural Areas Department, as a Public Engagement Specialist. I will be working to promote land conservation and appropriate recreation through community-based programming and activities. I am looking forward to working within the larger Fort Collins community and spending time outside, which I love! I interned with this department during the summer of 2022, and I look forward to rejoining a team that I have worked with before whose visions and goals align with my own.”
