Therese Panis, Loyola University Chicago

Therese is a senior at Loyola University Chicago double majoring in psychology and social work. She is driven by a commitment to understanding people, communities, and the structural forces that shape their lives. Her academic path reflects her belief that meaningful change happens when we combine individual insight with systemic understanding. Her professional experience ranges from direct services as a Registered Behavior Technician to research whilst interning at various non-profits. Her work ethic comes from the philosophy that effective policy begins with direct experience. She has learned that being embedded in real-world environments: listening to people’s stories, observing how systems function on the ground, and engaging in hands-on practice creates a deeper, more informed perspective on the changes needed at the policy level. Post-graduation, she will pursue a Master of Public Policy. She aspires to become a policy analyst with an international comparative focus. With an international comparative focus she hopes to study what works, understand why it works, and learn from nations that have made meaningful progress on social issues. Ultimately, she hopes to contribute to policies that advance housing, food security, and healthcare as universal human rights.

Linkedin