Daemen College : Admissions : Meet our Students : Jenni Blackwell
Jenni Blackwell
B.A. Political Science
Daemen Trustee Scholar
Graduate 2009
“I feel like Buffalo will always be a part of my life, not only because of Daemen, but because I have created a family of friends and colleagues that have made this journey extraordinary. Although I have had many great experiences at Daemen, the friends I have met and connections I have made are everlasting. I am so thankful for the opportunities I have had at Daemen and the wonderful people who have shared in my happiness. I hope these relationships will endure no matter how far I travel or how many adventures I have.
In the fall I will be attending the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and begin a two year masters program in political science (specialization in international/comparative). In January I will move to Bath, UK and study at the University of Bath and other universities throughout Europe.”
Jenni was the guest speaker at Scholar’s Day 2009:
“I began my college search knowing that I was at the top of my class, smart, driven and eager begin the steps that would ultimately lead to the fulfillment of my dreams. I came to Daemen College as a political science major and unlike the overwhelming majority of college students—I have not changed my major. I came to study the law, the constitution, political parties, and every aspect of government that would lead to my eventual acceptance to law school—that was the plan.
So I packed my bags and my car and drove the 1,200 miles from Dallas to Daemen College—I came alone, knowing no one, I was fearless and driven. I had the world at my feet
I lived on campus for my freshman year and experienced all the joys that a college campus provides—combined with “learning communities”— snowball fights and snowman building contests—(my first real winter), fear of the library resource catalog, basic math, and my first real appreciation for coffee—I wore the mark of a freshman proudly.
At the beginning of my sophomore year I began contemplating the possibility of studying abroad. The undiscovered natural beauty of Africa has always intrigued me so I got out a globe and went to the Global Studies office and said “I want to go here.” I left in January 2007 for the country of Botswana—a small country, ironically about the same size as Texas, above South Africa.
While I was abroad I met and had the opportunity to speak with many significant figures in Botswana’s history- I met a man by the name of Mike Dignake. Mr Dignake was a political opposition leader during the years of apartheid; he was arrested for fighting against the oppressive apartheid regime and was imprisoned on Robin Island with Nelson Mandela for 17 years. He shared with me a tiny bit of his infinite wisdom and today he lives his life in pursuit of nonviolent conflict resolution and peace.
I met doctors and midwives and government officials, tribal chiefs and military personnel who attempt to achieve prosperity and economic growth in a struggling nation. Everyone, everywhere struggles to create a balance—a balance between the possibilities of the future and the Botswana youth while struggling with a staggering number of deaths from AIDS.
I came home at the beginning of what would be the longest presidential primary in the history of this nation. On January 20th I sat at home watching history—and was in awe at the leadership and the ideals that our generation gets to lay claim to. At this college, and many other colleges, you will share your classroom with Iraq war veterans—and in May when I graduate I will honorably and humbly share the stage with a recipient of the purple heart.
Graduating in May presents many challenges- but the education and the life lessons that Daemen has given me gives me confidence in myself and my abilities. I have lasting friends and everlasting opportunities. Four years ago I made a choice— the same choice that all of you will make very soon-like you—I could have gone anywhere and done anything, but that something special led me to Daemen—and if given the choice, I wouldn’t hesitate a second to make that choice again.