Afua Osei dreams of becoming a lawyer and having a positive impact on society. With the help of the Betsy Dotson, Esquire, Experiential Learning Fund, she came one step closer to achieving that dream.
A double major in political science and black studies, Afua spent the summer working in Washington, D.C., as an election reform intern at the national office of Common Cause, a nonprofit, nonpartisan grassroots watchdog group. She spent the majority of her time at Common Cause researching electronic voting machine malfunctions and legislation across the country.
"This was by far the most worthwhile and educational experience in my Allegheny career," says Afua. "I met people in a variety of fields relating to social justice and change. Prior to this experience, I was quite unsure about what I wanted to do after public policy or law school. I no longer feel this way because I have made connections with people who are living the life I want to live. They are passionate about helping others, and so am I."
The Dotson Fund defrays expenses for Allegheny students participating in experiential learning opportunities in the Washington, D.C., area. All full-time Allegheny students in need of financial assistance for such opportunities are considered for the award, although preference is given to female political science majors.
Mr. and Mrs. Robert "Bruce" Dotson established the fund in memory of their daughter, Betsy Dotson '74, who distinguished herself as a student of political science at Allegheny College. Following her graduation from Allegheny, Betsy received a law degree from Wake Forest University and a master's degree in public administration from American University. She later served as a lawyer in the U.S. House of Representatives' Office of Finance. Beginning in 1990, she worked at the Government Finance Officers Association, where she also served as director from 1997 to 2000.
Since its creation in 2001, the Dotson Fund has helped provide invaluable opportunities for more than 150 students. "Without the fund that supported my experience, I would not have had the best summer of my life," says Afua, who hopes to return one day to Washington, D.C., to pursue her law degree and career. "The Dotsons' generosity is greatly appreciated by not only me, but my parents as well. All I can say is thank you."
