From the president
Abhilasha Ghosh, a dedicated sophomore and Bonner Scholar at Maryville College, is deeply committed to public service, driven by a passion for advocacy, policy reform, and systemic change. Her Bonner service placement at A Place to Stay, assisting those facing homelessness and domestic violence, provides firsthand insight into how systemic failures create social problems. Abhilasha actively seeks to address these issues, understanding the necessity of collaborating with community organizations, policymakers, and advocacy groups. Her vision involves leveraging advocacy and policy reform to tackle interconnected challenges like housing insecurity and domestic violence. Aspiring to become a political science professor and ultimately enter politics, she aims to bridge academic research with public service, ensuring policies reflect lived experiences and work toward a future where justice and opportunity are accessible to all.
Personal Statement
My involvement in addressing housing insecurity began through my work with A Place to Stay, a nonprofit focused on ending homelessness in Blount County. This experience offered direct insight into the systemic issues connecting homelessness and domestic violence. Seeing these challenges firsthand solidified my commitment to tackling the root causes of social problems. In my role, I've connected clients with vital resources and actively collaborated with community partners to develop long-term solutions. A particularly impactful experience involved coordinating safe, emergency housing and support for a domestic abuse survivor, which required persistent advocacy and teamwork with other local organizations. I believe lasting change requires addressing policy and systemic barriers. My future goals involve bridging research and policy, particularly advocating for stronger protections and resources for vulnerable populations. I aspire to use my background in political science and community engagement to drive systemic reforms, eventually aiming to shape protective legislation directly. I see collaboration between nonprofits, policymakers, and affected communities as essential for building a more just and equitable society.