Jade Schleif

Background

About Jade Schleif

Growing up I knew I wanted to do something that truly mattered. But what did that mean? For the longest time, I had no idea. Then I stumbled upon the Justice and Peace Studies undergraduate program at the University of St. Thomas two years into my education. At that time, I was already a Sociology major, but I wanted more than research and statistics; I was striving for a more public type of sociology that combines data with praxis and concrete social action. I am inspired on a daily basis by the people and circumstances I come into contact with to be a skillful advocate for peace and justice, to build on and share sociological principles that may help others find their way, and to advance the common good around the world. As both an activist and a scientist, I am committed to making meaningful change. Serving as an AmeriCorps Promise Fellow and a Promise Fellow Leader for nearly 3 years, I learned what it takes to walk alongside young people as they find and nurture their potential. Now with YIPA (Youth Intervention Programs Association) as their Training Director, I'm able to serve those who serve youth in a capacity-building role by providing exceptional online training opportunities. Youth workers who continue to learn and grow can gain the knowledge, skills, and confidence they need to serve youth at their best.*Past Study Abroad Highlights* • UMAIE History of Nazi Germany January 2, 2012- January 30, 2012 -I studied abroad through the UMAIE course History of Nazi Germany in January of 2012. I joined a group of students who traveled to Vienna and Salzburg in Austria, Krakow, Poland, as well as multiple cities throughout Germany including Berlin, Munich and Nuremberg. We not only studied history but vicariously lived the experience by traveling to multiple work and concentration camps. • HECUA Political and Social Transformation in Ecuador January 2, 2014- January 30, 2014 -I participated in this HECUA study abroad course Political and Social Transformation in Ecuador in 2014. I traveled closely with a group of fellow students who quickly became my second family. We stayed with host families in Quito, as well as in rural, indigenous areas. We stayed at Yasuni National Park to hike in the rainforest. We learned about diverse topics in class while simultaneously getting our hands dirty in the community, all while working on our Spanish skills!