“When I was fifteen years old, I took a class on how our cultures around the world are deeply impacted by the geography around us. While this was a very unique topic, it was one that sparked my interest in learning about the way we all live differently, in countries all over the world. Fast forward seven years later, and I’m graduating with a major in International Studies with the Comparative Culture and Identity sub-plan.
My cultural anthropology class reminded me of why the high school version of myself even got interested in this subject in the first place. I learned in depth how every single person in the world lives their life in different ways, all shaped by their own surroundings. It showed me that there’s truly so much to learn from each of us, no matter who we are. Learning about other cultures and experiences inspires me to change the way I live, in order to better myself.
By taking classes in education in China to culture in the Himalayas, to working in Bali and studying in Barcelona, I have learned more about different traditions, heritages, and ways of life than I could have ever hoped for. However, I know there is so much more out there for me to learn, and I’ll keep striving to do that. Thank you to the Program in International and Comparative Studies for cultivating my interest in learning about the people and the world around us. Go Blue!”
Suma Kanuri
BS International Studies (Comparative Culture and Identity); BS Statistics; minor, Business Administration ‘21
Hometown: Princeton, NJ
Affiliations: Vice President of Sigma Iota Rho
Future plans: “I will be working on Procter & Gamble's IT team in the Fall! I'm very excited for this next step, and one day I hope to work abroad.”
Fondest memory of her experience in PICS: “PICS has genuinely shaped the way I want to live my life. Learning about the world while in my classroom inspired me to make the effort to get those experiences. PICS allowed me the opportunity to combine my interest in data analytics and comparative culture by supporting me in an international internship in Bali. While completing this analytical work, while living in a completely new place, I never felt more happy or purposeful. PICS' support helped me realize how important it is for me to live abroad one day.”
Is there anything you would like to express to your peers, parents, professors, or others?: “Thank you to my parents for supporting me in every way. Words cannot describe how truly grateful I am for you. I would not be where I am without you guys at every step. Thank you to my professors and GSIs for helping me look at the world in a way. You have helped spark a passion in learning about all of us and how we live in this great big world- it is something that I will continue to pursue for the rest of my life.
And lastly, thank you to the PICS advising staff. Rachel and Kelsey, thank you for helping me navigate through this for the past 4 years. Your patience and guidance, from helping me to pick classes to supporting me with abroad, has shaped my PICS experience here. Thank you to everyone along the way!”
