Katherine Sims,
University of Washington

Degrees: B.A. in Political Science; Minor in International Studies

How did the Stamps Scholarship help shape your undergraduate experience?
From interning at The White House and the Clinton Foundation to studying abroad in the Netherlands, the Stamps Scholarship has given me the humbling privilege to pursue many opportunities outside of the classroom that I otherwise would not have been able to. Overall, I can’t imagine having had a more rewarding college experience than I’ve had here at UW, and I have the Stamps to thank for that.

Tell us a piece of wisdom you’ve learned over the past four years.
Fight the urge to be cynical.

Who has had the greatest impact on you throughout your college career and how so?
I’ve had countless friends, peers, and mentors who have influenced me in life-changing ways, but I’m particularly indebted to my parents, who have tirelessly supported my passions and goals whether from near or far.

What’s your favorite Stamps Scholar memory?
My experiences at the Stamps Scholars National Convention in both 2015 and 2017 were uniquely wonderful opportunities to meet students from around the country and hear about their varied passions and accomplishments. It was particularly cool to see people in 2017 that I had first met in 2015 and hear updates about their lives.

What comes next?
I will be working at Citizen University, an non-profit organization based in Seattle that promotes active participation in civic life. Long term, my goal is to pursue a joint J.D./M.P.P.

Please share your favorite inspirational quote.
“Far and away the best prize that life has to offer is a chance to work hard at work worth doing.” – Theodore Roosevelt