Meet Jaimie
We asked our Summer 2018 intern, Jaimie Erker, for her thoughts on NeW and conservatism. Jaimie is a recent graduate from Colorado Christian University with degrees in Political Science and History.
How did you hear about NeW?
I heard about NeW while interning on Capitol Hill last summer. I was invited to attend their National Conference and was impressed with the connections they had, as well as promoting conservative principles among young women. I helped to found a NeW chapter on my university’s campus which will officially begin hosting events next year.
Why is NeW important?
NeW is important because it combats the pervasive feminist attitudes among young women on university campuses across the nation. It has become extremely difficult for women to hold to conservative values without being attacked for perpetuating the patriarchy or hindering themselves and fellow women. NeW creates a means by which young women can cultivate their conservative principles while being supported by a vast network of fellow conservative women.
What is the most important conservative issue in your opinion?
The most important conservative issues facing our nation are Constitutional literacy and a lack of understanding of the American Founding. Our nation was built upon the philosophical ideals of natural rights, limited government, and liberty. America began moving away from the original intent of the Founders, in part, because of the manipulation of academia by progressive intellectuals. If people do not understand the American Founding for themselves, they are enabling others to continue controlling the conversation. By encouraging greater Constitutional literacy, our nation can begin to regain its foundational principles and work to restrain progressive thought in government.
If you could offer advice to college students, what would it be?
My greatest piece of advice would be to get to know your professors. I was blessed to go to a small Christian, conservative university where the professors desired to build relationships with their students. My professors from undergrad have continued to serve as mentors and are good friends now. It was through them that I had unique opportunities inside and outside of college to grow in my knowledge and leadership. Even if you go to a large, secular university, taking time to go to a professor’s office hours can make a huge difference. Your professors are interested in you; they know what opportunities there are and have ideas to help you to succeed.
Why were you interested in interning for NeW?
I was interested in interning for NeW because of how impactful the National Conference was for me last summer. It was so refreshing to be surrounded by fellow conservative women who were working to promote conservative ideals on their campuses. Politics is dominated by men and, often times, the only women who get involved are liberals. Conservative women are few but mighty. I wanted to have the opportunity to become more engaged with NeW and continue surrounding myself with other strong conservative women.
What do you hope to gain from your internship?
I hope to gain greater workplace experience in planning and executing events, as well as grow in friendships with other fellow conservative women. I have always loved working for institutions that host educational events, so I look forward to promoting conservative principles amongst other young conservative women, so they can go forth and promote those values on their college campuses.
How do you currently advocate for conservative principles on campus?
Prior to graduating in May, I was involved in Colorado Christian University’s American Enterprise Institute (AEI) Executive Council, where I hosted several events promoting free market principles. Additionally, I worked for the Centennial Institute working to host their monthly lecture series and promoting the annual Western Conservative Summit to high school students and the CCU student body.
