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Paula Granger, BA 2008

Philosophy, Individualized Major

Paula Granger waits for no one when it comes to following her passion for learning--and doing. A native of Lake Charles, Louisiana, Granger says she chose IUPUI because, "I knew the degree from Indiana University would be respected wherever I went." Granger, now a distinguished May 2008 School of Liberal Arts graduate, is taking her new role as alum in stride-no surprise considering how quickly she made her own niche at IUPUI.

When Granger couldn't find exactly the major she wanted, she decided to create one. So, Granger graduated with two degrees-one created within the framework of Individualized Major Program and in Religious Studies of Womanhood in History, and another in Philosophy. She didn't stop there, supplementing these with minors in Psychology and Religious Studies. Granger's studies earned her a grant through the Summer Research Opportunity Program (SROP), which helped fund trips to Poland and Mexico, where she conducted research on matriarchal figures in religion. "My experiences abroad were amazing," says Granger. "They revolutionized my way of thinking and opened my perspective. Studying abroad allows you to learn and to put theory into practice."

A member of the Religious Studies Student Association (RSSA) and Alliance for Gender Awareness (AGA), Granger found time to balance everything by remaining "campus-centric." Staying on campus for school and work allowed her to network with faculty and aided in her research.

Today, Granger is an Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD) Family Violence Outreach Advocate for the Julian Center, a safe haven for abused women and children. Working with both IMPD and the Center allows her the opportunity to stay women-centered, she says, while doing community outreach, court advocacy, and "letting victims know they have options."

When not working or preparing for graduate school, Granger is a fun-loving film buff. On her days off, she likes to watch movies that range from the international to cinematic classics. Granger also loves learning about new cultures, reading, and practicing new dance moves.

Wherever she is, Granger is sure to apply her love of learning and to make her own niche with a career that makes an impact.

--Janine Mullins, Liberal Arts News Bureau

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