Graduate Profile: Gabby Abrego
With a program of emphasis (POE) in anthropology and modern languages, Gabby Abrego’s experience at Alma College turned out to be quite the adventure.
“Not only did my POE make my time at Alma unique, it was one of the most beneficial aspects of my education,” she says. “I was able to work closely with multiple professors and choose classes that fit me best while also including two international experiences.“
In addition to taking advantage of the opportunity to build her own degree, Abrego says she became a world traveler, dancer, choreographer, disc jockey, sorority sister, art gallery docent and mentor while at Alma.
“I loved that I could do it all at Alma!” she says. “I was able to explore both my academic and personal interests, and Alma supported me every step of the way. My Alma experience provided me with a strong educational foundation but also real world experience.“
Through Alternative Breaks and the EXPLORE program, Alma helped Abrego hone in on her passion for volunteering. She recently wrapped up two years with AmeriCorps VISTA through which she worked for The LEAGUE Michigan, a non-profit organization that implements service-learning and promotes philanthropy in the K-12 public schools.
Now, the 2010 graduate has her sights set on the Monterey Institute of International Studies in California, where she’ll study international policy studies with a concentration in human security and development.
“I’ve enjoyed helping teachers in the classroom and seeing students really have fun with service,” she says. “It’s extremely rewarding when students tell you that you not only have taught them something, but that something is philanthropy. Alma and AmeriCorps have both helped me realize that I want to serve on a global level, bettering the lives of people around the world.”
