Meet Mandie Nuanes '18, who saw herself grow through her gender studies and history courses and now thrives as an academic.
While at Whittier, Nuanes majored in history with a minor in gender studies. She was also vice president of the history honor society, Phi Alpha Theta. She's now earning an advanced degree in Latin American Studies at UCLA.
What first attracted you to Whittier College?
Whittier College was my dream school. I grew up across the street, and when I was in elementary school, I walked around the campus collecting pine cones. I knew I wanted to attend Whittier College; but, it became more attractive when I learned of their diverse history department, small class sizes, and the well-rounded liberal arts education I would receive.
Why did you choose to pursue Gender Studies?
When I was accepted to Whittier College, I knew I wanted to be a part of the minor because I had taken a Women’s US History course at a community college that piqued my interest. I was delighted to find out that Gender Studies courses at Whittier are offered across many different fields, and I was glad to have the opportunity to dive deeper into the topic.
Describe your experience at Whittier College. What was your favorite class?
My favorite class was Feminist Philosophy. The course was very challenging, but it was also the class where I experienced the most personal growth. It encouraged me to contend with arguments that were relevant to my life. It equipped me with a frame of reference that I needed going forward in my education.
What are you currently up to? How has your Whittier education benefited you professionally?
Currently, I am a graduate student in the Latin American Studies program at UCLA, interested in the history of Latin American and Caribbean tourism. My work looks at postcards as reluctant interlocutors to tourism to Haiti. My Whittier College education sharpened my analytical skills and gave me crucial research experiences that helped me to thrive at a research school like UCLA.
What advice would you give to future Gender Studies students when they graduate?
I would advise them to be unafraid of their own goals and ambitions. I had a professor in the Gender Studies department who always encouraged me to "be empowered!" I would empower them to explore what it is that they want to do and then do it. I would advise them to shake off any external preconceived ideas about what they should do and do the things that will best help them achieve their goals.
Finish this sentence: I am a "Poet for Life" because…
Whittier College has been a part of my life, even before I was a student there, and the lessons I learned while I was a student are the things that have shaped me into the adult I am now.
