Alumni

Natalie Razera – SCWS Class of 2018

Cornell University Student – Policy Analysis and Management, Migration studies, Demography, & International relations

“My journey from the Santa Cruz Waldorf School to being on the path of graduating from Cornell University has truly been cultivated by the values and skills I first acquired in the Waldorf classrooms. The emphasis on independent thinking, creative problem-solving, and community responsibility at SC Waldorf instilled in me a deep curiosity about the world and the courage to approach challenges from multiple perspectives. The school’s holistic approach to learning not only nurtured my academic discipline but also my empathy and cultural awareness, qualities that became central to my studies in Policy Analysis and Management. Early exposure to a foreign language was vital to my growth, fostering an appreciation for cultural heritage and linguistic diversity. It strengthened my ability to connect with people from different backgrounds and reinforced my dedication to pursuing international and humanitarian work, shaping the path I aim for today. These foundations enabled me to engage deeply with complex issues such as migration, refugee advocacy, and human rights, and to carry forward a commitment to serving diverse communities both in the U.S. and abroad.”