Graduating American Studies Major Will Work with the D.C. Legal Counsel for the Elderly

Autumn Thompson, ’18 majored in American studies with a policy concentration.

Autumn Thompson, ’18 American studies (policy concentration), global poverty minor

What are you doing after graduation?

After graduation, I will begin a position with the D.C. Legal Counsel for the Elderly as their new legal assistant. In this role, I will be assisting litigation attorneys with casework regarding housing conflicts for D.C. residents over age 65 who suffer from health issues. I plan to attend law school a few years after gaining experience working in a legal setting.

How did your time in the College of Arts and Humanities (ARHU), both in the classroom and outside of it, help you with your post-graduation plans?

Kate Juhl, the ARHU career advisor, really helped point me in the best professional direction based on my career interests.

What is one of the most memorable experiences you had in ARHU?

One of the most memorable experiences I have had at ARHU was the Access2Alumni (A2A) event. I was a student board representative for the ARHU Alumni Association, and was able to take part in the planning and execution of this year's A2A event. In addition, I will be serving as a senior marshal at commencement, and I expect this to be an very memorable experience.

What is one of the best classes you took ?

I really enjoyed Philosophy 140: “Contemporary Moral Issues,” with Alexey Aliyev, because it allowed me to discuss and apply ethical theory to highly contested issues in today's society.

What is the one thing you think everyone should know about studying in ARHU?

Everyone should know that ARHU is entirely interdisciplinary, and the college has many opportunities for students to find their academic calling.

Want to share your plans?  Email Kate Juhl at kjuhl@umd.edu with your information (photo is optional).  Please be sure to fill out the ARHU Grad Survey when you know your plans at gradsurvey.umd.edu.  The survey is open for 6 months after you graduate.