Mathilda Derek ‘21

Fall 2021 Semester in the City Fellow
Matilda Derek Headshot

Mathilda was an Anthropology and Justice dual major with a minor in Forensics. On campus, she stayed active, participating in many intramural sports such as soccer, floor hockey, and even winning a tournament for basketball. She participated in women’s rugby and took advantage of events at the gym including Zumba. Staying active has always been important for Mathilda. Working in team environments has also strengthened her ability to work with others to accomplish a common goal. She has always been excited to try new things and has kept her perspective on her future career wide open. During Semester in the City, Mathilda served as an intern for Boston Women’s Fund, an organization that invests in organizations and community solutions led by women and girls to advance racial, economic, social, and gender justice. The organization issues grants to deserving leaders and groups to support them financially. Within her role, Mathilda worked within a small group to help build this organization and lay the groundwork for its future expansion. She conducted community outreach and helped with the organization’s administrative work. Mathilda was most excited to increase her communication skills, gain experience in a professional atmosphere, and – most importantly – learn how her actions can create positive, real change in her community.