As the first in her family to attend college, Izzy Boudnik has made the most of her time at UW-Madison. In her first three years on campus, she’s written for a student newspaper, addressed more than 7,000 students alongside the chancellor and discovered a passion for education policy.
The junior from Milwaukee is pursuing a degree in political science and a certificate in education policy studies, with interest in becoming an education reporter or working in college admissions. She shares more about her path.
What drew you to UW-Madison?
UW was the only school I visited where the students seemed to find the elusive balance between work and fun. The students here are hardworking and creative, but they also like to have a good time. I originally thought that the size of campus was a negative, but I’ve now come to appreciate it because there is always somewhere to go and something to do.
Additionally, the proximity to the State Capitol is invaluable for a political science student. Not only do UW students have greater access to internships, but when something happens people inevitably gather in the Capitol, so we are right in the center of the action.
How did you choose your major?
I thought about the way I could feel my heart beat faster every time I read an article about women in politics, unjust laws or close elections. I knew that I wanted to feel that same passion every day. Political science was an obvious fit for me.
What do you like most about your major?
I love how everyone in the PS major has a particular policy or issue area that interests them. It is so cool to see how people interpret different topics through the lens of what they are interested in. And while it can sometimes be a little competitive, I like that ambition is common among PS majors. It makes me feel like I can accomplish big things even as an undergrad.
What’s been a favorite class or professor?
If I could take Political Theory again for the first time, I would. Professor Dan Kapust is an amazing lecturer. He transformed texts from the 1600s into living documents that are still relevant today, and really made me understand the fundamentals of political science much more deeply. I didn’t think I would enjoy a theory class, but I felt like I learned so much that I actually kept some of my books from the class so that I can reference them in the future.
How have you grown or changed since starting college?
I’m a first-generation college student, so I try to treat every day on campus as an opportunity to learn and grow. I graduated from high school feeling like I left some things unsaid, so I have worked really hard to become someone who isn’t afraid to stick up for the things they believe in. I’ve also realized that it’s important to take chances and sometimes fail — something I struggle with, but has been rewarding every time I manage to do it.
What’s been a significant internship or out-of-the-classroom experience?
I spent my sophomore year as the opinion editor for The Daily Cardinal, UW-Madison’s independent student newspaper. Writing experience was just one of the things I gained by working for the paper. I also gained a community of students who were bonded together by hard work and proximity. Because Cardinal staff spend so much time in the office, each year’s editors get to know each other very well. Not only did I get a ton of insight into what being a journalist is really like, I also ended up with a group of friends from different majors.
What is the best memory you have from your time at UW?
In terms of scale, nothing can really top giving the Convocation speech to 7,400 freshmen. It was an honor to stand next to Chancellor Blank and share my story with the incoming class. However, even everyday experiences here have been memorable, like the time my roommate and I ditched our homework to sled down Bascom Hill at 11:30 at night (using a dining hall tray, of course).
What advice would you give other students?
Don’t let the size of this campus or the success of others intimidate you. If you see something that you think should be different, send an email and see where things go. You would be surprised at how much can happen by taking a chance and reaching out. Big changes start with one person’s bravery — and if you speak up, others are likely to join you.