William Garard Godwin (COL ‘07) and Ryan Majerus (COL ‘07) were recently named Truman scholars for their leadership potential and commitment to careers in the public sector. Majerus could not be reached for comment. Godwin sat down with The Voice and shared the details of his pursuit of this impressive achievement.
What is your educational background?
I am from Jackson, Tenn., and attended a public high school—Jackson Central Merry High.
What was the selection process like for the scholarship?
Twenty students were selected for an on-campus interview. From those 20 students, four students were chosen to be Georgetown’s Truman Scholar nominees. Once three of us were chosen as Truman Finalists, we then proceeded to prepare for the regional interviews. I didn’t expect to win as the competition was very stiff. [But] I walked into the interview room with a lot of confidence.
I saw that you’re studying Sociology and African American studies. Why did you choose these two fields?
I came to Georgetown resolute on a government major, and then after the first two introductory courses I found it a little dull and not as engaged with the human condition as I wished it to be. Dr. King, one of my heroes, was a Sociology major at Morehouse College—and I figured I could learn something from the discipline as well! I am a minor in African American studies. I’m working very hard to turn the minor program into a full major with a full-time faculty member and director.
Do you know your fellow Georgetown recipient well?
Yes. Ironically, we are both studying abroad this year at the London School of Economics, and get this: we live in the same dorm, and his room is literally directly above mine.
How does this scholarship benefit your future?
I plan to use the money to defer the costs of law school. In terms of graduate school, I [am] seek[ing] a doctorate in government or history. I plan on being a university professor but also a committed social activist and attorney for the poor and disadvantaged. Ultimately, I seek to run for public office in the U.S. Congress.
Did you have to confirm that you intend to take a specific job in the public service sector?
Three of the first seven years after completing the graduate degree must be in a public service—related career. My prospective work in academia would satisfy that requirement.
When you found out you won, what was the first thing you did?
I was first very shocked and quiet as I found out over email. As the school term was ended here on the same day I found out, most people were leaving, so I went to a very nice restaurant in China Town —which is a short walk from where I live— and had a very expensive meal … I first notified my parents—the best supporters that any son could ever ask for!
