Things that make me happy: My friends, helping people, good music, podcasts, late-night drives, summer nights, a solid history lecture, and my cat named Tuesday.
Why I’m here: I’m here to be an advocate for people. I’m here because To Write Love on Her Arms is composed of some of the most genuine people I’ve ever met. I’m here because I love people and I believe that our stories are important. I’m here because I dream of living in a world where talking about mental health isn’t a taboo. I’m here because I felt called to do non-profit work and this has been the most incredible first step in doing just that.
On the weekends, you can find me: At the beach or writing… or writing at the beach.
We’re jamming to your playlist on a road trip, what artists are we listening to? My shuffle is pretty eclectic so we could be listening to anything from Kendrick Lamar, Tyler the Creator, and Brockhampton to Brittany Howard, Kings of Leon, Harry Styles, and Rosalía.
If you have dibs on the TV, what are you most likely watching? The Handmaid’s Tale, for sure.
If you could book a trip anywhere, where would you go? If we’re talking in the US, either Boston or New York City… But on an international scale, definitely New Zealand.
What challenges you and takes you out of your comfort zone? I’m a major introvert so meeting new people can definitely take me out of my comfort zone. I’m also a type 1 on the Enneagram so I tend to be my biggest challenger. But learning more about myself and recognizing my weaknesses has made me much more well-rounded and I’m grateful for that.
Favorite saying or quote to live by: “You can still know peace without knowing what comes next.” – Morgan Harper Nichols
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Things that make me happy: People make me happy. Stories and words make me happy. Songs and music and concerts make me happy. I’m happy in the morning with my coffee and my journal. I’m happy when I finish my evening run—though not always during it. Pasta makes me happy. I’m happy when my friends hug me. I’m happy when people open up to me. Good news makes me happy. I’m happy when my sisters call. I’m happy in good company.
Why I’m here: I’m here for the belly laughs in the kitchen. I’m here for the tears and heavy hearts. I’m here because I’ve fought to be here. I’m here because I deserve to be here, alive. I’m here for the possibility that someone would answer this question with my name. I’m here because my voice is someone’s favorite voice. I’m here for the ugly. I’m here for the grace and the beauty, too. I’m here because there is nothing better than watching that big sky turn pink at just the right moment, when nothing else feels right. I’m here because, if I wasn’t, the world wouldn’t be the same.
On the weekends, you can find me: At Aldi getting those dealz. Maybe the beach—if it’s warm enough. You can find me at the Burrow watching the other interns watch Love Island. You can find me cooking. You can find me trying new food that one of the other interns made. You might find me taking an afternoon nap. Or maybe in my car, Petunia, taking a drive, blasting music (see below for what music). You can surely find me anywhere in the sun.
We’re jamming to your playlist on a road trip, what artists are we listening to? We’ll start off with some sing-along hits—some Disney (Mulan, duh) and some early 2000s pop (old Rihanna, maybe a little Gwen Stefani??), just to get the energy going. Then I’ll play some Still Woozy because they’re super chill and fun to listen to in the car. Then some Maggie Rogers because she’s a queen and makes you wanna dance. Bon Iver is one of my favorites, too. So yeah, a little bit of everything.
If you have dibs on the TV, what are you most likely watching? At risk of sounding super basic, The Office is a solid crowd-pleaser. I would specifically turn on Season 7, Episode 2. It’s my favorite and always makes me laugh. If no one else likes The Office, I’ll turn on New Girl or Atypical. If it’s just me, my favorites are The Haunting of Hill House (scary, but will make you weep) and The OA (mind-blowing and beautiful).
If you could book a trip anywhere, where would you go? Greece, hands down. For no other reason than it’s gorgeous in the pictures. But I’ll go anywhere in good company.
What challenges you and takes you out of your comfort zone? Moving here has challenged me and taken me out of my comfort zone. I had a moment a couple of days before leaving home where I realized that I was leaving everyone and everything I knew to immerse myself in what would be a life-changing experience. So far, it’s one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. That’s my heavy answer. But amusement parks also take me out of my comfort zone. And escape rooms. And caves.
Favorite saying or quote to live by: I always like to say, “Well, at least it will be a good story,” when things go awry. It’s a little reminder to go with the flow. But I love the quote, “There is no love, only proof of love.” Some French person said that I think. I like to apply that quote to the relationships in my life. Where am I showing the proof of my love? Where can I show it better?
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Things that make me happy: My best friends, calling my family, doggos (all of them), Harry Potter, reading, looking up at the stars, my fellow interns—I could go on...
Why I’m here: This internship has been on my bucket list since I found out it was something I could do. For the longest time I wasn’t in the right headspace to do it, so now that I am, I’m here to give back to an organization that has helped me through some of my darkest times and has always been there to validate my emotions.
On the weekends, you can find me: Wanting to adventure literally anywhere and everywhere I can, reading a book, or napping.
We’re jamming to your playlist on a road trip, what artists are we listening to? All Time Low, We The Kings, Green Day—any band along those lines, but then I’m also a sucker for some Halsey, Taylor Swift, and Ariana Grande
If you have dibs on the TV, what are you most likely watching? Grey’s Anatomy or Brooklyn Nine-Nine. I’ve also introduced the other interns to the British masterpiece that is Love Island.
If you could book a trip to anywhere, where would you go? New Zealand—hella pretty and also my hometown of Hobbiton is there.
What challenges you and takes you out of your comfort zone? This internship has pushed me so far out of my comfort zone, literally being an ocean away from my family, my friends, and my home for four months. My first week was a real challenge, to push back against the anxiety that was telling me to get a flight home ASAP. I’m so glad I stuck it out because I couldn’t imagine being anywhere else.
Favorite saying or quote to live by: “Never ever let go of hope.”
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Things that make me happy: Potatoes, pasta… pasta filled with potatoes. All breakfast foods, movie theatre popcorn, hot chocolate with extra marshmallows, and cake batter ice cream. The first scoop out of a fresh jar of peanut butter makes me happy, as well as warm pudding. Fuzzy socks and comfy sweaters. Cold days where I can cuddle up on the couch and do absolutely nothing. Dying my hair, spa dates, and special effects makeup. Clipping coupons that I will probably never use and trying different kinds of fruit. Hedgehogs make me happy; chinchillas make me happy—if I’m being honest, most fluffy exotic animals. Genuinely playing The Sims, and not removing pool ladders makes me happy. Hugs from certain people bring me so much joy and mean more to me than any of the things I mentioned above. And of course, the love of my life makes me the happiest.
Why I’m here: I am here because To Write Love on Her Arms helped me when I needed help. Renee’s story resonated with me and opened a whole new world that I didn’t know existed—with people I could relate to, and people who understood. Their mission helped me realize what I want to do with my life, which is to help others. I want to be that reminder for them that hope is real, help is real. That was 12 years ago, and through different TWLOHA programs, events, and numerous applications, I finally made it here. Everything happens for a reason, and I believe that is why I am here now.
On the weekends, you can find me: Working all the time, or at least I was when I was in retail, but since I quit nearly 6 months ago, you can find me sleeping in, eating brunch, and then napping again. In the evening I am probably playing Catan and other board games with my family and friends or attempting to watch movies I’ve never seen but then getting easily distracted by literally anything. You can also find me once a month at an escape room with my family. Since becoming part of the TWLOHA team, weekends have been filled with learning the area and finding cute mom and pop places to eat, working at events, and taking my time to just relax. I still play Catan online with my family too.
We’re jamming to your playlist on a road trip, what artists are we listening to? On my drive down to Florida, I was jamming out to The Spill Canvas, Marianas Trench, Set It Off, Heartist, Jacob Lee and Palisades. I just got Spotify the day before I left, so those were the only bands I was craving to listen to. I am still an emo kid at heart, so I have a soft spot in my heart for early 2000’s emo bands and anything that makes me feel my feels. I am also a sucker for most 90’s pop and hip hop music for the nostalgia.
If you have dibs on the TV, what are you most likely watching? I rarely watch shows or movies over again and again—except for a select few like Sweeney Todd and Charmed (the original series, not the reboot)—but right now I am watching a few things. I am almost halfway through Supernatural, which has been a process! So many episodes, so little time! On Netflix I am watching Grace and Frankie, Chilling Adventures of Sabrina, Living with Yourself, Riverdale, Gotham, Sex Education, and I’m avidly waiting for the newest season of The Good Place to make its way on there! I also started Light As A Feather on Hulu and watched the first season in a day. Long story short, I’m usually watching spooky things with a small dash of lighthearted comedy.
If you could book a trip to anywhere, where would you go? I would absolutely love to travel to Europe and go back to Spain! But if I could choose one place, I think I would have to choose Iceland and visit The Blue Lagoon and see the Northern Lights.
What challenges you and takes you out of your comfort zone? Growing up I was a very picky eater. As I have gotten older, I have been in situations where I've had more opportunities to try different things. I have told myself that I need to broaden my food horizons otherwise my diet would solely be potatoes, but there are still so many foods that are difficult for me to want to try.
Favorite saying or quote to live by: “Love's completely real, so forget anything that you have heard. And live for the moment now.” – The Spill Canvas
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Things that make me happy: My dog (or any dog really), desserts, sunny weather, good books, singing, driving, and being surrounded by any of my friends or family.
Why I’m here: I'm here because TWLOHA gave me a sense of purpose and hope back in 2007 when I was a teenager trying hard to navigate the trials of growing up, while dealing with depression on top of that. Throughout my life, TWLOHA has always been there as a source of inspiration and comfort to go back to when the burden of my own mind became too heavy to carry. I'm beyond grateful for the opportunity to be a part of this organization and to now provide support and hope to other people who are struggling.
On the weekends, you can find me: Either in a CrossFit box, having coffee with a friend, reading a book at the beach, or cooking up a storm in my kitchen.
We’re jamming to your playlist on a road trip, what artists are we listening to? My taste in music is a little all over the place, so anything ranging from Harry Styles, Lizzo, and Maggie Rogers, to bands like Turnstile, IDLES and Code Orange!
If you have dibs on the TV, what are you most likely watching? Jane the Virgin, Sex Education, Atypical, Queer Eye… You could say I'm a sucker for cheesy TV!
If you could book a trip to anywhere, where would you go? If I had unlimited money and time, I would visit all 50 states of the US! (Yes, as a non-American, this is actually my biggest dream.)
What challenges you and takes you out of your comfort zone? My biggest challenge here as an intern is the fact that I’m an introvert deep down, but I also have major FOMO. So trying to find some kind of balance in immersing myself in this whole experience while also maintaining some self-care practices and taking time for myself.
Favorite saying or quote to live by: "You deserve the space you occupy in this world."
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Things that make me happy: Watching the changing colors in the skies through a sunset/sunrise, sitting by the ocean, the sound of the waves, loving and being loved, a hug, crying my heart out, having intentional conversations, vanilla-scented candles, a good perfume, a handwritten letter, a beautiful book, a good run/exercise routine, chocolate with salt in it, cuddling with dogs, dancing without a care, writing a good poem, winters, home-cooked food by mom, spending time with family and friends.
Why I’m here: I’m here because I know how difficult it can be to hold on to hope through difficult seasons, but I also know how grateful you’re going to feel for choosing to stay. I know how pain can feel ultimate, and how depression can lie to you. I’m here because sharing my story feels like a personal responsibility. TWLOHA has played a significant role in mine, and if my story can give a voice to yours, I’m here for you. I’m also here for me, and I’m grateful.
On the weekends, you can find me: Sitting by the water, listening to the waves. It helps that I’m only a couple of blocks away from both the beach and the beautiful riverside. I also use my weekends to spend time with friends/family, both here and back home (virtually, of course). Our favorite: grocery shopping! Spending time reflecting on and writing about the week. Sometimes, just taking time to be with myself. I also enjoy cooking a meal together or going out to dinner and getting to know people I spend my days with (my co-interns are the best!).
We’re jamming to your playlist on a road trip, what artists are we listening to? Well, I’m sorry if you’re not necessarily jamming to my playlist because the genres I like are pretty mellow. I enjoy indie/alternative/ambient pop and Novo Amor is my current favorite. Coldplay has been one of my favorite bands for a while and some other artists I love include The Paper Kites, Phosphorescent, Gregory Alan Isakov, Ben Howard, Bon Iver, Prateek Kuhad, Peter Cat Recording Co., Billie Eilish and Finneas O’Connell, Cigarettes After Sex, and M83. I also enjoy listening to music by Troye Sivan, Kygo, The Weeknd, Alan Walker, and Maroon 5. I understand if you don’t want to ride in my car anymore…
If you have dibs on the TV, what are you most likely watching? I’m not much of a TV person but you’ll probably find me rewatching Friends for the 100th time. Brooklyn Nine-Nine and Atypical are some other shows I enjoy.
If you could book a trip to anywhere, where would you go? Iceland, to witness the northern lights.
What challenges you and takes you out of your comfort zone? Uncertainty challenges me the most. I consider myself a risk-taker but I feel psychologically threatened by too much change; it continues to remain my little paradox. Being an intern at TWLOHA and flying from halfway across the world has been both exciting and challenging. The struggle for me is to remain conscious of my values and purpose while constantly pushing myself beyond my comfort zone.
Favorite saying or quote to live by: It’s from my favorite book called “Tuesdays with Morrie” by Mitch Albom:
“The most important thing in life is to learn how to give out love, and to let it come in.”
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Things that make me happy: Plants and animals, my boyfriend Dallas, escape rooms, watching YouTubers play horror games, my family, game nights, nature, sunlight early in the morning, cooking, trying something new, tea, coffee, kombucha, developing a daily routine, yoga and meditation, self-improvement, and any opportunity to be creative.
Why I’m here: I’m here because I am determined to make a difference in the lives of others. Having my own struggles with mental health, I know how difficult it can be to go without hope and without help. Now, I hope to help people find their way, and so they can continue to help others and positively impact the world around them.
On the weekends, you can find me: Playing video games with my boyfriend, watching YouTube, practicing an instrument (I am trying to learn mandolin!), or working on a research project.
We’re jamming to your playlist on a road trip, what artists are we listening to? If we are listening to music: Florence and the Machine, Marina and the Diamonds, Ella Fitzgerald, Frank Sinatra, Dame Shirley Bassey, ABBA, Billy Joel, Depeche Mode, Hall and Oates, John Williams, and The Killers, among others.
If we are listening to podcasts: Sam Harris, Joe Rogan, Jordan B. Peterson, Rhonda Patrick, and Eric Weinstein, among others.
If you have dibs on the TV, what are you most likely watching?
TV Shows: Stranger Things, Bones, F is for Family, Big Mouth, Rick and Morty, Doctor Who, and Release the Hounds.
Movies: Nature documentaries, Star Wars, Indiana Jones, anything Disney, The Decoy Bride, and anything Marvel.
If you could book a trip to anywhere, where would you go? There are so many places that I’d love to travel to, but if I had to choose, it would have to be the Galapagos!
What challenges you and takes you out of your comfort zone? Anything I am unfamiliar with. Making the first step in getting to know someone, opening up and letting people in, new concepts or ideas, new outdoor activities, new exercise routines, new recipes, you name it! I am always down for a challenge! Joining the TWLOHA team is definitely my biggest challenge yet, and I look forward to seeing where this internship will take me!
Favorite saying or quote to live by: “Be love in the room.” The idea is to radiate loving-kindness, bring it with you wherever you go, and share it with those around you.
“Do you want to be okay as you are or strive towards what’s better?” – Jordan B. Peterson
I really like this quote because it reminds me to do everything in my power to be the best version of myself possible, instead of being complacent and feeling “just okay.”
To learn more about becoming an intern click here.
Things that make me happy: Spending time with friends and family, a good cup of coffee, meeting new dog friends, tossing a frisbee, sunsets, sunrises, fall weather, hiking to the top of a mountain that I didn’t think I could climb, summer camp, trying something new and enjoying it, getting a new mug, discovering a new author, and being with the people that I love.
Why I’m here: I want to be a part of something bigger than myself, and I want to show the message of hope that has changed my life. TWLOHA’s message has impacted the lives of so many, and I am incredibly excited to be a part of spreading that message this term. I’m here to remind people that they do make today better, and that they need other people. If you’d told me a year ago that this is where I would be this fall, I would be in shock. But here I am, in good company.
On the weekends, you can find me: Walking to the sunset spot, visiting our favorite coffee & tea shop, spending time with the other interns, talking to my family and friends back home, and binge-watching Netflix.
We’re jamming to your playlist on a road trip, what artists are we listening to? A combo of Switchfoot, Judah & The Lion, Colony House, NEEDTOBREATHE, NF, and probably a mixture of whatever new singles I like that have been released recently. I’m also a fan of some One Direction, Jonas Brothers, and OneRepublic. Gotta keep it interesting.
If you have dibs on the TV, what are you most likely watching? New Girl & Brooklyn Nine-Nine have always been something that I’ll go to, but I also really enjoy The Good Place and a solid crime drama or documentary. It really depends on which shows I like that are currently airing.
If you could book a trip to anywhere, where would you go? New Zealand! I grew up on Lord of the Rings, and I would never pass an opportunity to see the Shire with someone else paying for it. It’s a beautiful country, and I would love the chance to see it. I love a good adventure.
What challenges you and takes you out of your comfort zone? Purposeful vulnerability, fear-revealing honesty, going into something without a back-up plan, trusting people to do what they said when I don’t know them well, and putting myself out there without any guarantee of not being hurt. Also moving to Florida to live with five strangers definitely makes that list.
Favorite saying or quote to live by: “I want to be in the arena. I want to be brave with my life. And when we make the choice to dare greatly, we sign up to get our asses kicked. We can choose courage or we can choose comfort, but we can’t have both.” – Brene Brown
To learn more about becoming an intern click here.
