Braimah, who came to Stanford from Palos Verdes Peninsula High School in Rolling Hills Estates in Los Angeles County, described herself as a “quiet kid” growing up. As she grew older, Braimah also found her voice.
“One thing my parents always told me was that when you feel things are not right, you have to speak up and fix it,” she said. “You can’t wait around for something to change or someone to change it for you.”
Braimah has continued that outlook as a political science major, choosing it not necessarily because of the career she plans to go into (management consulting), but because it’s an area that everyone should be educated in, especially in the context of these volatile times. Knowledge is power.
Braimah has felt a change in herself as she’s endured the events of the past year.
“I don’t want to say that I’ve gotten more pessimistic, but it is very frustrating and sad to see a lot of things happen in this country,” she said. “I feel like the main issue we have is an empathy gap. People are not able to empathize with others. That to me is the root of our problems.”
Braimah sees hope as well. It’s rare to see so much strong, young, and diverse leadership. There is so much energy to create change.
“I’m so hopeful for our generation and what we have to offer,” Braimah said.