Brandeis University Admissions

Jateja S. ’28

(she/her)

“Brandeis is the kind of place where you can grow into who you really are — where it’s okay to ask the so-called ‘dumb questions,’ try new things just for fun and discover what you’re passionate about along the way.”

Excited, anxious and ready to begin

Like many students starting college, Jateja S. ’28 arrived at Brandeis excited about independence — but also a little nervous about what it meant to be on her own.

“Being independent is thrilling and terrifying at the same time,” she says. “But Brandeis didn’t leave me to figure it out by myself. There’s always someone — whether it’s a professor, an upperclassman or a staff member — who’s just one email or conversation away.”

A politics and African and African American studies double major with minors in legal studies and journalism, Jateja was drawn to Brandeis because of its commitment to social justice, its welcoming environment and its strong academic programs.

Finding confidence in the classroom

As a first-year student, Jateja learned early on that asking for help wasn’t just okay — it was part of the process.

“In one of my first classes, I was totally lost on a concept we were covering for days,” she recalls. “I finally went to my professor, and he told me, ‘There are probably five other students in this room with the same question — you’re just the one who asked.’ That changed everything for me.”

That professor was Steven Wilson, assistant professor of politics, and she credits him with helping her feel confident about speaking up, participating more and growing as a student.

Lights, stage, Brandeis

While many students get involved with clubs, Jateja took a bold leap into the spotlight. After not performing since elementary school, she auditioned for the Brandeis Undergraduate Theater Collective’s fall musical “Pippin.”

“I hadn’t done theater since fifth grade, but I wanted to try something just for fun,” she says. “‘Pippin’ was my first real musical, and I loved every second of it.”

She’s now performing in her second show, “Argonautika” with Hold Thy Peace (HTP), where she’s playing several roles. What started as a fun hobby has become a core part of her Brandeis identity.

Advice for first-year students

In addition to theater, Jateja participates in mock trial, a more career-focused activity she also loves. She is also treasurer of the Pro Bono and Justice Club and acts as a speaker coach for TEDx Brandeis. Her advice to other students: Join one club that pushes your thinking, join one that’s just for fun, try something new — just because you can.

“This is your chance to grow, learn, explore, and just be you. Brandeis makes that possible. You’ll find your people here — I promise.”

Still exploring, still growing

Whether she’s tucked away in her favorite quiet library nook (location undisclosed!) or enjoying the green space of the Great Lawn, Jateja is embracing everything her first year has to offer.

“I feel like I’m unlocking new parts of campus all the time — like a video game,” she laughs. “It’s small enough to feel close-knit, but big enough to keep surprising you.”