Samantha J. Podias Senior Print Journalism Major, Spanish/Women's Studies Double Minor Pennsylvania State University
Growing up in a Greek household as the oldest of five daughters, I have always been surrounded by strong, inspiring women. When I came to Penn State I began taking courses in women's studies and immediately my eyes were opened to a world of feminist scholars such as Audre Lorde, Anne Koedt, and Bell Hooks, (the list goes on), who all emphasize the need for sexual liberation and empowerment for women in a world where pleasure is male-centered and generally heteronormative. Although I'm still paving my own path as a modern day feminist, I want to share my experiences in hopes that women and men alike can learn from my mistakes, find the ability to be empowered in all of their relationships, and learn how to always have sexual agency and fulfillment of their desires in a safe and healthy way.