Our Chapters: New York University
Chapter Director Name: Rathna Ramamurthi
Grad Year: 2011, MA 2012
Major: B.A. Politics, Psychology, Minor in Spanish, M.A. in Political Theory
Future Aspirations: Law school, Advocating for Minority Rights
Why you are in Strive:I think a program like Strive could greatly benefit
New York City's high school students. I am committed to the cause, and
excited to spread awareness to the rest of the NYU community.
What your favorite thing about Strive is:Strive has the potential to develop
into something really valuable at NYU, and I can't wait to get started.
Director of PR, Marketing and Fundraising Name: Lee Loechler
Grad Year: 2012
Major: Film and Television, Minor in Web Programming and Applications
Future Aspirations: Move to CA, work in the film industry.
Why you are in Strive: I love the idea of matching people on a need-experience basis. It seems ridiculous that high school students would have to walk themselves through the college application process, when they could be getting advice from someone who's been down the same path already.
What your favorite thing about Strive is: So far, I've been completely blown away by the dedication of my peers as they work to get our Chapter off the ground, and I can only imagine how dedicated they'll be as mentors.
Director of External Relations Name: Andrea Stoesz
Grad Year: 2013
Major: Politics/Premed
Future Aspirations: Go to med school and become a Pediatrician
Why join Strive?: I joined Strive because I really believe that college students have the power to help high schoolers achieve their goals. I think it's really important that we help people who want to go to college, but may not know how to get there.
Favorite thing about Strive: Making a difference and working with peers to do so.
Director of Internal Relations Name: Harini Venkitarama
Grad year: 2011
Major: Psychology with minors in business and Italian.
Role with Strive: I manage on-campus activities such as finding out which student groups our team can collaborate with and which of my peers would make the best mentors.
Future Aspirations: It is my goal to have a career in education or social work, and I hope that my experiences with Strive and mentoring will help inspire others to take charge of their education and help their community.
Why I joined Strive: I like working with people who are driven and passionate about their futures. I believe that high school students should have as much support as possible when they are planning their college education and career aspirations.
Curriculum Director Name: Susannah Griffee
Grad Year: 2014
Major: Journalism and Politics
Future Aspirations: Improving education, allowing people across the world access to news, and serving others. Also, trying every type of pizza in New York and running a marathon.
Why you are in Strive: I am grateful every day for the privilege of going to college. I believe that everyone should have an opportunity to gain that privilege, because education not only often guarantees a better career, but also deepens the experience of life.
