Hometown:

St. Charles, Illinois

Education:

University of Minnesota, Twin Cities

Year:

2014

Educational Background:

Child Psychology major, Family Social Science minor; Honors program

Why did you choose to volunteer with ENP?

My main reason for interning with ENP was to have the opportunity to work with children who are in adverse circumstances in order to bridge the gap. It is amazing to have a chance to work with a program that focuses on the Ethiopian community. I feel it is important to experience Israel from the lens of an ethnic minority and be part of the effort to improve their living conditions.

What do you hope to achieve through your experience with ENP?

I hope to gain an understanding of the Ethiopian population, their culture, struggles, resilience and stories. I want help children in ENP identify and work toward tangible life goals, big and small. In working at ENP, I am also hoping to have a greater understanding of the gender roles that are promoted in after school programs such as these, and become familiar with the research that has been done on this population.

What are your goals and aspirations for the future?

My goals are to continue to set challenging goals for myself late in life. I hope to have a job that continues to excite me and push me to adapt to my environment. Specifically, I hope to continue to travel, and work with children facing various challenges, as well as produce and consume research regarding child development.