Name: Winnie Ye
Year: Senior
Major: Political Science and History
Hometown: Brooklyn, NY
You’re the current president of the Stony Brook College Democrats. How did you first get involved with this club?
Winnie: “I joined the College Democrats my sophomore year at Stony Brook. When I got here as a freshman, I was slightly overwhelmed and frankly a little shy when it came to putting myself out there. I knew that I didn’t want to spend the next three years staying in my comfort zone so when I became a sophomore, I made a real effort to join clubs and try things that I was scared to do. I was always passionate about social justice and I joined the College Dems to talk about politics and current events with other people. But I stayed, because of the sense of community and friendship; in fact, I met many of best friends in that club.”
What other clubs and activities do you do on campus and how did you get involved with those?
Winnie: “My sophomore year, I became a member of the USG: Elections Board and also joined Vox: Voices for Planned Parenthood, a club that works to educate and empower individuals to make informed and independent decisions about their sexual reproductive lives. It was there that I started organizing and eventually working in the reproductive rights movement. During my sophomore year, I also got a job which allowed me to learn more about the inner workings of the university and interact with people I probably never would have met otherwise. I worked in the Undergraduate Colleges, executing events for hundreds of clubs and organizations on campus. I currently work in Conferences and Special Events, working on university and presidential events, including the commencement. These experiences really shaped my Stony Brook experience and made me feel more connected to the school—I couldn’t imagine my college experience without it.”
What have been some of your greatest accomplishments since you started out at Stony Brook?
Winnie: “I’m not sure if I count these as ‘accomplishments’ but some of the coolest things I’ve done since Stony Brook were: joining the College Dems and VOX; traveling with the original Freedom Riders on the 50th anniversary commemoration of the Civil Rights Act; meeting Bill Clinton and other elected officials with the College Democrats; interning in Washington, D.C. with Planned Parenthood; connecting with reproductive rights activists across the country; lobbying on Capitol Hill; and spending five months studying abroad in England and traveling across Europe and northern Africa.”
What do you still hope to accomplish before you graduate?
Winnie: “At this point in my life, I am ready to graduate and start the next phase of my life. The past four years have really flown by and I’m trying to enjoy my last few days as an undergraduate student with my friends, and fellow Seawolves.”
What do you hope to do once you graduate?
Winnie: “After I graduate, I’ll be pursuing my master’s in public policy on the accelerated track at Stony Brook. From there, I plan on getting a job at a social justice nonprofit focusing on advocacy and governmental affairs.”
What have you struggled with the most during your time at Stony Brook?
Winnie: “Like many, I’ve struggled with the state of campus dorms, the quality of the food, and the lack of student life on the weekends. There was also a period of time where I felt overwhelmed, burned out and unsure about my future plans. What really helped me get through those moments was the fact that a lot of people we’re going through the same thing too. I made sure to practice self care, speak with mentors, friends, and family, and try new things.”
Do you have any advice for younger students who want to get more involved on campus?
Winnie: “Say yes and figure out the rest later- especially if you’re scared, or nervous, or doubtful. To quote Paul Luning, ‘I realized in life that the things that made me uncomfortable at the time are often the ones that I look upon the most fondly afterward.’ Is there a job/internship/scholarship you want to apply for but you don’t think you’re qualified? Apply anyway! Is there a club you were always interested in but never got around to joining? Just join. Is there something you’ve always wanted to do but you’re slightly terrified? Just do it. Especially studying abroad! Nothing good comes from staying in your comfort zone. Your time at Stony Brook is limited so take advantage of each and every opportunity, and if you have questions, ask someone. People are here to help.”