Hey There

My name is Anneliese Sonon.......

• I’m driven by curiosity, pillared by compassion and kindness, and foster a strong sense of community.

• I have a deep interest in education and the labor movement, which is reflected in my commitment to making workspaces and learning environments more accessible and inclusive for everyone.                  

I’m pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Labor Studies at Indiana University, because I believe that understanding the dynamics between workers, organizations, and communities can help me to make meaningful contributions toward positive changes in the world around me.                   

Key Experiences and Mentors

• A few key experiences have shaped who I am today. First, working as an Instructional Assistant has been pivotal. It’s given me hands-on experience in education and shown me the challenges and rewards of helping students learn.

• This role has taught me patience, communication, and adaptability—qualities that I now recognize as essential in any educational career. It has also fueled my interest in pursuing a master’s degree in Education, as I am eager to explore how to support students even more effectively.                   

• Another defining experience was a class I took early in my degree that introduced me to the history and impact of labor movements. Learning about workers who advocated for their rights was inspiring, and I became motivated to do the same for others in my community. This experience made me realize that change is possible through collective action, and it strengthened my resolve to pursue a career where I can advocate for fair treatment, whether in workplaces or classrooms.                       

College Goals and Beyond

• My goal during my time at Indiana University is to build a solid foundation in Labor Studies while developing the skills I’ll need to make an impact in education. I want to use this knowledge to bridge the gap between labor advocacy and educational improvement, especially for marginalized groups. Beyond college, my ambition is to work in education policy or as an administrator, where I can contribute to creating equitable learning environments.

• Through my studies and experiences, I hope to continue growing into a person who values justice, empathy, and empowerment for all. College is a stepping stone in this journey, and I’m excited to see where it leads. Thank you for taking the time to share in my journey.