Sam Podnar is a senior in the Frederick Honors College and the Dietrich School of Arts and Sciences majoring in politics and philosophy and public administration. She is the 2025 Truman Scholar for Pennsylvania. Read on to learn about her experience:
"When I won the Truman Scholarship, I expected financial support for graduate school and a new professional network. However, I received much more than I could have imagined, as the Truman community has already transformed my life. At Truman Scholars Leadership Week, a retreat for the newest cohort after the awards are announced, I met dozens of friends and mentors that span fields and hometowns. My 2025 cohort includes a community health organizer in Tennessee, an LGBTQ rights activist who immigrated from China and joined the U.S. Air Force, a young city councilman who just launched a campaign for Congress, and even a former Jeopardy! contestant. I connected with older Truman Scholars working around the world on pressing environmental, educational, and national security issues. I have been given guidance for my career and graduate school, and the award has given me valuable credibility as I take on my next challenges. More than anything, I am grateful to join an incredible community of public servants that stretches across all corners of the globe — made up of some of the most supportive, inspiring, and fun people I have met, who welcomed me with open arms. I look forward to continuing to make an impact through community organizing and education equity, supported by the Truman Scholarship, and I encourage Pitt students interested in public service (in any field!) to apply. If you are interested, please don't hesitate to email me at sampodnar@pitt.edu."