Elle Knofczynski

This photo is a screenshot from a Zoom meeting with an Oregon House Representative. As a former intern with OSPIRG, I facilitated a meeting to discuss primary issues such as reproductive rights and climate change.

Degree: BS in Planning, Public Policy & Management, minors in Nonprofit Administration and Spanish

Expected Graduation Date: Spring 2024

2022-2023 Scholarship
Gregory R. Pulliam Student Assistance Award

I Am Originally From Portland, OR

WHY I CAME TO THE UO AND HOW I CHOSE MY MAJOR
I chose the University of Oregon and the Clark Honors College (CHC) because I knew I could receive a rigorous academic experience while still enjoying the social atmosphere and be close to my family. I enjoy being in the College of Design because it is such a broad school in which I get to be exposed to so many different areas of interest. I also feel that there’s so much support from faculty and staff in the College of Design and also events where I’m able to meet other students.

I chose PPPM after having a conversation with my PathwayOregon advisor about my interests and goals. She recommended it to me after discussing my interest in nonprofits and improving the nonprofit sector.

UNIQUE QUALITIES I BRING TO MY STUDIES
I’ve had extensive experience volunteering and interning with nonprofits in both administrative and interactive roles. I’ve also had work experience in retail and understand the perspective of customer service employees. I come from a low-income household and was raised by a single mother, who is dedicated to putting my brother and me through college as first generation students. In addition to schoolwork and sports, I worked all throughout high school at various jobs and nonprofits. As someone who has relied on the services of nonprofits, I am excited at the prospect of being on the other side and providing what I once needed.

MY INFLUENTIAL PROFESSORS
One professor that I have felt a strong connection with is Dr. Andrea Herrera, an Honors College professor. They created a healthy environment to foster authentic relationships between themselves and their students. What I learned from them isn’t just interesting course material, but about the importance of non-binary thinking.

MY EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
The past year I have been involved in the Oregon State Public Interest Research Group Foundation (OSPIRG) as a relational organizer and am currently working with the UO Craft Center as a front desk receptionist. The Craft Center has been such an important part of my college experience. I have made many friendships, but I have also learned what it feels like to be truly respected and appreciated as an employee by your supervisors.

MY GREATEST LEARNING EXPERIENCE AT UO
My experiences in the CHC have led me to push myself farther each day academically. Every time I question whether I’m qualified or deserve to be in the CHC, I remember how successful I have been in research, writing, and creating relationships with professors. It has built my confidence but also allowed me to learn in a range of interesting subjects, from American prisons to Queer Theory and fungi.

AFTER GRADUATION
I aspire to be in a position where I can help the nonprofit sector work more efficiently and equitably. After graduation, I hope to work in nonprofit administration or in a position that I am able to help those in need while simultaneously working to combat the systems that enforce these struggles.

YOUR GIFT
Over the last spring term, I was concerned I would be unable to complete my degree in PPPM, especially with my double minor and Honors College requirements. I decided to take credits over the summer to receive recognition of my internship experience and apply it to my degree requirements, but soon realized I would not be able to cover the cost of summer credits. It was a stressful time deciding whether I should work another job over  summer in addition to my full-time internship to cover these costs, or schedule myself for over 20 credits a term over the next few terns to finish in time. With this scholarship, however, I’m able to give my full devotion to my internship. It really helps me balance work and school, and allows me to spend time with my family while at home.

THANK YOU! You have helped a first-generation student from a low-income household pursue their hopes of giving back to the community that raised them.