Lauren Werner
Year Graduated: 
2021
Program Coordinator
Sacramento County Opioid Coalition and the Sierra Sacramento Valley Medical Society

Job description

Community outreach specialist and harm reduction educator. Also working with clinicians and their patients to help guide and write their advance directives in case of illness or death.

Why did you choose this program?

I chose the International Studies program because I love to travel and help people and knew if I found a career that allowed me to do those two things, I would be happy. I learned that Humboldt State University was in the top 5% of Peace Corps recruitment, something I had yearned for and aspired for since high school. What better program to join than one that teaches global culture, politics, altruism, and non-governmental organizations? After touring the campus and Humboldt County, I fell in love with the beautiful and affordable locations for independent living as well as the fresh air of opportunity.

How did this program prepare you for your job?

There were many portions of the program that spoke to career readiness and advancement. I took required courses dedicated to the international resume, interview process, and job search. I was also able to earn credits during my time at a political science internship off campus with an organization of my choosing. I feel this program gave so much room and flexibility for the students to focus on their desires and their goals. Each of my peers were in the same bachelor’s degree program, but all our assignments and tasks were supported and encouraged to be different based on our individual interests and strengths. I plan to join the Peace Corps by the second half of this year.

What did you enjoy most about the program?

I sincerely enjoyed that learning a foreign language and studying abroad is a vital requirement of this program. The professors were the most excellent, as well as the international-based campus clubs and resources. The events, such as International Education Week, provided many open doors and opportunities to be exposed to refined global concepts, trends, and predictions. The department also holds its own scholarships for its students, to assist and encourage them during their time abroad. The study abroad requirement was so exciting to me that even when they waived this requirement during the pandemic, I persisted and made it happen anyway as I truly wanted the full experience of what this program has to offer.

What would you say to prospective students who are thinking about applying to this program?

It’s an all-in-one stop shop, you absolutely cannot go wrong! Every organization or company has a role relevant to the way they want to speak and present themselves to the world. Having a broader outlook and a foot in the door to communicating and respecting the Other in our world is highly desirable and valued by those who do not perform this naturally. I truly believe this program helps each student to develop a more well-rounded and open mindset when approaching diversity and alternative ideas. There are a multitude of absolutely fantastic opportunities delivered to you on a silver platter, you just have to pick up a fork and eat it.

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