When J’Nae Player ’27 first heard about Notre Dame, she wasn’t even sure she’d apply.

“I don’t think I’m going to get in,” she remembers telling her high school biology teacher, who had earned his Ph.D. from the University himself.

But with a little encouragement and a lot of curiosity, she took a leap.

Since then, taking chances has become something of a theme.

A sociology major from Baltimore, MD, Player has built her Notre Dame journey around embracing the unfamiliar—whether that’s switching from neuroscience and behavior to sociology, working with people with disabilities in Canada through ND Bridge, flying to Bulgaria for a summer of service, or applying to study abroad in China “just for the heck of it.”

“I used to be really comfortable staying close to home,” she says. “But Notre Dame taught me it’s okay to be uncomfortable. That’s when you grow the most.”

This summer, Player is volunteering with Caritas Sofia, a nonprofit serving vulnerable children in Bulgaria.

Her work has included everything from leading activities for children with disabilities and refugee children in extreme poverty to organizing field trips and helping teach basic math and English, often with the help of Google Translate.

“It’s been challenging,” she admits, “but these kids have been through so much. Just being with them, giving them a break from what they’re used to, is something I’ll never forget.”

The experience has not only deepened her interest in social work, it’s helped her see the world from new perspectives.

“Before this, I really only really knew about the social issues happening in the U.S.,” says Player. “But going abroad shows you how complex the world really is and how important it is to listen, learn, and step outside yourself.”

Player’s not done adventuring yet. This fall, she is headed to China for a full semester abroad. Though she studied Mandarin in high school, the decision still felt like a bit of a risk.

“China’s far,” she laughs. “But I figured, not everyone gets to do something like this. So why not?”

From reality TV nights with friends in her residence hall to navigating language barriers in Bulgaria, Player says she’s learned that Notre Dame’s biggest gift has been possibility.

“There’s always something for someone,” she says. “No matter your major or your background, you can find your place—[especially] if you’re willing to step out of your comfort zone.”

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