Students can count on new Class of 2014 President Tessa Hochberg to be a dedicated member of the CSG Executive Board. “I’ve always had an intense interest in politics and how our government functions,” she says.
Her new position in CSG is a good introduction. A friend convinced the class representative to run for Vice President. “I’m so happy I did, too,” says Hochberg. “It was a little out of my comfort zone, but I am very excited to learn from my class!” Though she’s got many ideas for next year, she’s extremely excited to connect with the campus community. “Chatham is very unique so getting to see that from a student government perspective is very special to me.” Hochberg takes the job seriously. “I see so many possibilities for Chatham; I can’t wait to get to work!”
Though the native Pittsburgher wasn’t confident she’d stay close to home for college, Chatham shifted her perspective. “After visiting and spending some time on campus, I decided that the small school in a bigger city that I had been looking for was right in my backyard,” she shares. “I love the beautiful campus, which is like an oasis in the city of Pittsburgh. The student to teacher ratio is amazing. Chatham has awarded me so many opportunities I could not be happier with my decision to attend!”
Now that she’s here, the cross country runner works at the AFC front desk and is a member of the Student Athletic Advisory Committee (SAC). While she’s proudly pounding the pavement in purple and white, the Public Policy major focuses on a future spent running for office. “My main interest is with education policy,” she says. “I believe everyone has a right to a strong education in this country. I want to use my career to better our nation’s public school systems.” What does that mean for her? “My dream job is anything with education policy. So working for the Department of Education, a school board, or think tank. Being a policy analyst would be pretty cool too! I really want to move to DC after graduation.”
In the meantime, Hochberg is thrilled to be a Cougar. “I love everything about it. Going to a women’s college is an invaluable experience. It has provided me with confidence in myself, wonderful experiences and a strong community feeling. I am proud to say I am a Chatham woman.”