Isaac joins us from the College of Arts and Sciences where he is pursuing a major in Political Science (concentrating in American Politics), a minor in Survey Research and Data Analytics, and a Spanish language certificate. He hopes to use his time as an SNF Paideia Fellow to gain listening and understanding skills to be an engaged citizen that will in turn develop his sense of civic duty to carry out his educational and career goals.
His concern for the growing divide within American politics, an inability to pass legislation across the aisle, and lack of civil discourse has inspired him to want to dig deeper.
I am curious about how to balance individualist and community-oriented approaches to free speech. Too little discourse may lead to rash decisions whereas too much deliberation could delay much-needed action. Through the SNF Paideia Program, and my years at Penn, I hope to better understand this distinction and strike the proper balance between dialogue and action.
Isaac wants to help promote constructive dialogue, encourage political wellness, participate in service to bridge polarized parties, and in doing so, fulfill his civic duty.
Beyond his academic studies, Isaac volunteers for the Penn’s After School Arts Program (ASAP), meeting weekly with students at the Platt Performing Arts House to teach music as part of a free music education program for local Philadelphia schoolchildren. “Growing up, music and piano became an outlet for my creativity and an essential pillar of my identity.” Isaac looks forward to continuing his involvement with ASAP, sharing his love of music with others.