Brooks School Spotlight: Charlotte Holubar ’29
Meet Charlotte Holubar ’29, DC Start Scholar, Cornell in Washington
Located at the Brooks School’s Wolpe Building near Dupont Circle, Cornell in Washington gives students the chance to study, live, and work in the heart of the nation’s capital. This fall, the program expanded with DC Start, a new residential academic experience for first-year Brooks School students majoring in public policy and health care policy.
We caught up with Charlotte Holubar, one of the inaugural DC Start Scholars, to hear about her favorite parts of the program. From living steps away from the metro to connecting with U.S. senators at campaign events, Charlotte shares how the experience is shaping her academic journey.
Q: Why did you choose to study public policy at the Brooks School, and why did you decide to participate in DC Start?
From the start of my undergraduate career, I wanted to be fully immersed in the epicenter of policy and government. I chose to study public policy at the Brooks School because it combines interdisciplinary learning (pairing statistics and economics with more traditional government-related classes) with tangible, real-world impact—something I’ve always valued. For as long as I can remember, I’ve been drawn to understanding how policy decisions shape people’s daily lives and how thoughtful governance can advance equity and opportunity.
I decided to participate in DC Start because I loved the idea of beginning my Cornell experience within a small, close-knit cohort equally passionate about public service. Building those early relationships and shared experiences in Washington, D.C., felt like the perfect foundation for both my academic and professional journey.
Q: How would you describe the atmosphere in the Wolpe Building? What’s your favorite part of living there?
The location! You walk outside and are met with one of the best metro stops in the city, parks and running space, fabulous restaurants, and shops. You get to step up to another level of independence that is just so rewarding to experience.
Q: What has been your favorite part of student life since arriving in D.C.?
Impromptu dorm movie nights and potlucks! When we were first getting settled and finding the best practices for cooking, we all brought a dish or side, always ending with great laughs and full plates.
Q: What has been one of your most memorable hands-on experiences while in D.C.?
After canvassing and working over the past few weeks with Governor-elect Abigail Spanberger as a Campaign Fellow, I was invited to attend her rally — and brought along my peer, Jalyse Rodgers. At the event, we had the opportunity to meet and speak with Senator Warner, Senator Kaine, and Governor-elect Spanberger.
The following day, I brought another peer, Lucas Truong, to meet with Senator Kelly before heading out to canvas again! It was such an incredible experience.
Q: What’s your favorite part of the DC Start curriculum?
I think many of my peers would, of course, say our DC Up Close program (a very close second), but I have thoroughly loved my Ethics and Public Policy class. Professor Damianos is beyond committed to our growth, not only as students but as thinkers who engage with the policies shaping our world. His thoughtful readings and insightful discussions make the class dynamic, challenging, and genuinely exciting to be part of.