About me
My name is Heather McDowell. I am currently an undergraduate student at the University of Arizona’s W.A. Franke Honors College, set to graduate in December 2026 with a double major in Philosophy and Law. My work sits at the intersection of legal research, creative design, and community-focused innovation.
I transferred to the University of Arizona in Fall of 2024, from San Diego Miramar Community College. Originally a music major, I took a complete 180° turn, deciding to double major in Philosophy and Law. I made this change out of my desire to forge change. Over the summer of 2025, I had the privilege to intern with the Sonoran Institute. A Tucson nonprofit that has specialized in water restoration for thirty-five years. Under the mentorship of their Santa Cruz River Program Director, Luke Cole, I managed datasets, assisted with field research, and supported outreach on local water policy challenges. That experience sparked my passion for environmental issues. In addition, showing me how policy evolves behind the scenes through research, collaboration, and community engagement. I was offered to intern with them again through the RISE Marketing internship. Where I currently use my design and outreach capabilities to boost engagement to the Sonoran Institute cause.
In January of 2025, I was one of five students selected for the competitive CATalyst Studios Makerspace internship. Makerspaces are modern art studios that harness technology, such as 3D printing, computer software(including CAD), embroidery and sewing machines, laser cutters, woodshop tools, and more to innovate, invent and create. During my internship, I mastered these skills and completed my art installation, "Generation-Z: Generation Unprecedented"(see below). I was then promoted to Student Worker in Fall 2025. Currently at CATalyst I now lead workshops, teach, and invent new projects.
During my undergraduate degree, I have also explored various clubs and organizations on campus. I was apart of the University of Arizona Mock Trial team for the 2024-2025 academic year. UA Mock Trial is a rigorous extracurricular. Summing up, at minimum, 10 hours a week. Although originally placed as a shadow, I proved myself by working my way up to be placed onto the A-team in the spring, in addition earning the title of competitor for the Spring San Diego competition. I learned time management, work ethic, and team collaboration skills that I carry with me today. In addition, I am currently a writer for the American Politics section of University of Arizona Wildcat Political Review(see below). A publication in which I express my theories on American politics, and apply my philosophical and legal perspectives to them.
My ambition for my career is to harness the best mediums for change. I believe the law and the arts are the most powerful mediums to do so. I am curious in how creativity can bridge gaps in academia in order to bring conversations, typically confined to bureaucratic or academic spaces, to everyone.