Leon Ramotar

HONS 2011J

Hunter College-CUNY

Professor: María Hernández-Ojeda

Helene Weissman

Personal Statement

Helene Weissman led a fascinating life. She was neither a soldier nor a doctor, yet she helped the people of Spain as a liaison, teacher, and administrator. She collected numerous supplies to fuel the supporters of the Spanish Republic. As a Hunter College student this essay allows me both to rescue a Spanish Civil War volunteer from obscurity, and reveal the rich history of famous alum. Uncovering a volunteer’s life from the unknown to the surface has concretely helped me fathom the burning questions that the Spanish Civil War sparks. Even though she had a wonderful life with her husband and children in the United States, it was a cognitive mission to help the people of Spain. She was determined to make a difference, and nothing would stop her. (more…)