Providence, R.I.--Providence College political science major Shannon Hulst '10 of Falmouth, Maine, recently attended the National Education for Women (NEW) Leadership Summer Institute at St. Anselm College in Manchester, N.H.

The five-day, residential program--open to residents of New England and those who attend college there--is designed to educate and empower young women to give them the skills to be part of the next generation of women leaders. Only 22 students, each nominated by her undergraduate institution, were chosen to participate in the annual NEW program, which is in its second year.

"I urged Shannon to apply because I believe that she has qualities of leadership that should be nurtured and encouraged," said Dr. James M. Carlson, professor of political science. "Her experience was so fruitful and rewarding that we will encourage other PC women to apply for the conference in the future."

Hulst, who described the experience as "absolutely wonderful," participated in workshops and activities that addressed a wide range of topics in politics and leadership.

After beginning with a public speaking seminar, the participants delved into "hands-on" sessions relating to balancing a diverse workplace, presenting oneself as a female professional, working with the media, and defending a position as a lobbyist.

According to Hulst, one particularly engaging part of the week was a visit to the New Hampshire State House, where the group saw the legislature in action. The group also held a mock committee hearing at the New Hampshire Institute of Politics. Over the course of the program, participants also heard from a series of panels featuring local women who have achieved success in fields such as business, journalism, law, politics, and health care.

Hulst, who will be president of the A Cappella Club this coming academic year and who serves as a research assistant for Carlson, said the experience offered her new insights inside and outside the world of politics.

"I now have more confidence as a leader and know that if I work hard enough I will accomplish my goals," she said. "I was able to begin to learn different sides of politics, both good and bad, that you're never taught in the classroom. The program was a great complement to my studies and activities at PC."

Hulst said she also benefited from the personal interactions with other attendees as well as the formal activities.

"I learned a great amount from the workshops and panelists but equally, if not more important, is what I learned from the other participants," she said. "Every single woman was incredibly motivated and ambitious, and they were all an inspiration. Each and every one of them had goals that they were working toward and issues that they were already fighting for."

--Joe Miller '10

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