PITT HOME |FIND PEOPLE

Amanda Shaheen

Bio Summary
Cohort Year: 
2011
Home Institution: 
University of Pittsburgh-Johnstown
Heinz Programming Area: 
Arts & Culture
Study Abroad Country: 
England
International Experience

Amanda Shaheen, a junior at the University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown, spent seven weeks in London, England completing an internship with Shelter Charitable Organization. While in London, Amanda had the opportunity to live in the culturally rich city, where she immersed herself in the culture of many renowned authors. As an English Literature major, with a strong desire to be an English professor, living in the same city that William Shakespeare, Geoffrey Chaucer, and Charles Dickens, brought some of the worlds greatest novels to life; thus giving Amanda a better understanding of literature, which is essential to be an effective professor. While Amanda is grateful for the opportunity to leave London with a better grasp of a multitude of the words greatest literary works, working with Shelter Charitable Organization, was the most rewarding experience. Homelessness is a growing social issue in the United Kingdom, as there is a severe housing crisis and with a declining economy, many people are finding themselves at risk of homelessness. Shelter works to help people stay in their homes or find them alternative housing, so that they are not forced into street homelessness. While interning at Shelter, Amanda worked with the Event Planning team to organize fundraising events. The London Marathon and Night Rider are two very large events that Amanda worked with. Amanda found the experience to be extremely rewarding, and is grateful for the opportunity to help people, while also learning so much about the culture that makes London, England unique.

© Vira I. Heinz Program for Women in Global Leadership, All Rights Reserved.