 Soma Ghoshal
"Dream Job: Working for the Grameen Bank and running my own NGO"
How do you lead a political life?
I won’t say that I’m as up-to-date on politics as I should be, or would like to be, but I do keep up with current politics. I read the news online everyday, and at my current internship at the Clinton Foundation, I’m getting hands-on experience dealing with political issues.
When did you start leading this life?
My parents have always encouraged me to take an active interest in domestic and foreign politics, so I would say I started being interested in Indian politics when I was in middle school. As for American politics, I probably truly got interested in High School.
What steps did you take to get to where you are?
I think I just tried to be aware, and I still think I’m not aware enough, but as long as we have open minds and are willing to learn more about the issues, that’s doing a lot.
How do you think politics affects your daily life?
This is an interesting question because I always get puzzled when people say they aren’t politically active because their vote won’t matter, or their opinions will be drowned out. I think politics affects everyone, all the time. Our infrastructure, our laws, our restrictions are all based upon the leaders we elect into office. If we are not active, then who’s going to decide who will run our country?
Why is it important to lead a political life?
A lot of people believe that all politicians are corrupted. That’s why it is increasingly important for genuinely passionate people to get involved. We will always need people who care about their country because those are the ones who will make a difference and decide between war and peace.
What advice do you have for people who want to get involved?
Just keep learning about the world around you and the issues. Also, I think it’s terrible when people adopt other people’s views, such as their parents, and don’t actually understand why they support the sides they do. It’s important to hear everyone’s perspectives before making decisions.
If you could change one thing about the world, what would it be?
For people to respect each other and themselves more. I think a lot of the world’s problems would be solved that way.
Age: 19
University: NYU
Hometown: Houston, Texas
Occupation: Student
First thing you do when you wake up: Almost fall off my bed trying to turn off the alarm clock
Favorite Musical Artist: I have different ones for different moods!
Role Model: So many…but currently, Bill Clinton
Dream Job: Working for the Grameen Bank and running my own NGO
Favorite Quote: cliché, but “You must be the change you wish to see in the world” --Gandhi
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