![user profile avatar](https://static.bold.org/profilePictures/newlinkedinphotoee436b92af714b009da26e1326b9c65b.webp)
Hobbies and interests
Advertising
Acting And Theater
Art
Art History
Fashion
Flute
Gender Studies
Interior Design
Reading
Politics
Anthropology
Art
History
I read books daily
Nils Ivarsson
1,373
Bold Points1x
Finalist1x
Winner![user profile avatar](https://static.bold.org/profilePictures/newlinkedinphotoee436b92af714b009da26e1326b9c65b.webp)
Nils Ivarsson
1,373
Bold Points1x
Finalist1x
WinnerBio
Passionate about fostering diversity and equity within the arts and the workforce, I am a dedicated student interested in exploring various fields, including political science, education, and law. I am eager to leverage my passion for diversity and equity to make a meaningful impact in these fields. In the arts, I am committed to amplifying positive voices and creating spaces where diverse perspectives are celebrated and valued. In the workforce, I strive to promote inclusive practices that empower individuals to excel and contribute their unique talents. Driven by a desire to create a world where everyone has the opportunity to reach their full potential, I am excited to continue my pursuit of knowledge as I pursue my academic and professional goals.
Education
Tufts University
Bachelor's degree programMajors:
- History and Political Science
- Political Science and Government
Minors:
- Arts, Entertainment, and Media Management
Los Gatos High School
High SchoolMiscellaneous
Desired degree level:
Doctoral degree program (PhD, MD, JD, etc.)
Graduate schools of interest:
Transfer schools of interest:
Majors of interest:
- Law
- Interior Architecture
- Intercultural/Multicultural and Diversity Studies
- Real Estate
- Political Science and Government
Career
Dream career field:
Political Organization
Dream career goals:
Work In Government
Exhibition Art Cataloger: Works 1972-2024
David Kimball Anderson2023 – Present1 year
Arts
STUNNAR Magazine
Photography2021 – 2024
Public services
Volunteering
San Mateo County Libraries (SMCL) — Work at events (such as Earth Day), study groups, book sorting, and celebrations.2022 – 2023Volunteering
Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF) — Youth Volunteer, Event Coordinator2017 – 2023
Student Life Photography Scholarship
Elijah's Helping Hand Scholarship Award
Representation. A word that has shaped the United States of America. It is after all some of the first words of protest, it's a word standing for a dream to feel understood. This word means everything to me. I notice how little, in the political field, LGBTQ+ experiences are underrepresented. As a gay individual, I've found myself confused. People I look up to, governors, senators, and scholars of law, and wonder why since the beginning of the country, so feel LGBTQ+ voices stand in government.
The narratives we hear often overlook the rich tapestry of identities and experiences within the LGBTQ+ community. While strides have been made, it feels as though the progress is slow and uneven, often limited to symbolic movements rather than meaningful (tangible) change. Representation matters not only in politics but in shaping a culture that embraces diversity.
When I see leaders who claim to advocate for equality but fail to include LGBTQ+ perspectives, it raises questions about the authenticity of their commitment. The lack of visibility can lead to a feeling of isolation, making it difficult for young people like myself to envision a future where we are fully accepted and celebrated. This has fueled a lot of my work with the San Mateo County Library system in the Bay Area, California, where I am committed to creating places where queer youth can seek counselors, guidance, and career advice.
I plan to expand these initiatives to engage with local political structures, advocating for policies that recognize and support the needs of LGBTQ+ individuals. By bridging the gap between community resources and political advocacy, I aim to ensure that our voices are not just heard but actively shape the policies that affect queer lives.
I believe that true representation goes beyond numbers; it requires a commitment to amplifying voices that have historically been silenced. It means creating spaces where LGBTQ+ individuals can participate actively in shaping the policies that affect their lives. Only then can we move towards a society that truly values every individual, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.
As I continue to navigate my own journey as a member of the LGBTQ+ community, I hold onto the hope that I can be an advocate of these diverse stories of the community and create tangible change. Then, the word "representation" will no longer be a dream our founding fathers saw it as, but a vibrant reality.