For my 14th birthday, my friends compiled a certificate titled, “How to be Anne Crabill.” The document humorously detailed everything from my personality traits to my obsession with glittery BIC mechanical pencils. When I reminisce about their gift, I’m reminded of the layers of nuance that make up who I am. Like my thoughtful friends, I struggle to define myself in a single tagline. Rather, a meaty dictionary entry with multiple subheadings would be the best way to describe me. So here is the current definition of Anne Crabill:
- I’m a sports enthusiast and played defense for the varsity women’s lacrosse team.
- I’m interested in addressing misinformation through public policy.
- My motto is “seek discomfort.” As tired as the cliche may be, I believe that life begins at the edge of your comfort zone.
- Fun facts: I love a good rom com and consider myself a bit of a taco truck aficionado.
I would like to say that I am Anne Crabill, yet I am still exploring what it means to be Anne Crabill. I love the Zadie Smith quotation that reads, “I am the sole author of the dictionary that defines me.” I know that I will guide my actions by living for myself, asking questions and reflecting on who I am and where I want to go.
I’m incredibly honored and humbled to be a part of the Baldwin community. I am thrilled to navigate the next few years at Duke with such an amazing, reflective and confident cohort of women.