Veronica Yellowhair is a graduate of the Writing, Rhetoric, and Technical Communication program in the Department of Writing Studies.
What was a meaningful experience in your education while you were at Boise State?
A meaningful experience at Boise State was the diverse lesson plans of the instructors. I am well aware I am the minority, especially as a Native American woman. Every semester at Boise State, my instructors included Indigenous social issues. This made me feel I belonged at Boise State and the community, especially the staff made me feel included.
How have you been applying what you learned in your degree program?
Structure and conciseness in my writing. This may sound generic or unchallenging but I struggled in my writing to find my structure and concise voice. In my current internship, when I speak I have structure. I try to stick to who, what, when, where, why. I make sure I ask questions clearly and directly. I never had that before earning my degree.
What is next for you? What are you excited about?
I am currently a Tribal Outreach Specialist for the Washington State University’s Energy Program. With my team, we have started The Green Transportation Project. The goal of the project is to educate and encourage the tribal communities of the Pacific Northwest to drive electric vehicles (EV). This goal is to help with air pollution and protect the environment. I’m excited about this position because I am familiar with EVs because I have owned a couple and currently drive a hybrid. And, I’m working with my Native people. I feel I am doing something special and impactful for the Tribal communities in the Pacific Northwest by advocating for EVs. This is an exciting time in my life where I feel I am making a difference and wouldn’t have the internship I have without my degree.
Writing Studies Alumni Spohighlights diverse talents and success stories within our community, focusing on program graduates. Learn more about the department’s certificate, minor, and bachelor’s options.