Introducing myself and my journal: From this hour I ordain myself loos'd of imaginary lines and limits. whitman

About Me:
I am studying Government and Nonprofit Administration at the University of Pennsylvania. I was also accepted to the University of East Anglia in Norwich, England, to study International Development. I am hoping to be able to attend both schools and combine my degrees to work on microfinance and developing countries. All of this is just recently coming together for me, and I feel that something has clicked. I have found my purpose. Before engaging in readings and studies recently, I thought I was more interested in renewable energy and the arts. I couldn't make up my mind, but helping developing countries, especially through women, has always been the constant thread. I know I can implement my other interests, while working on my more focused goal of economic development. I also run my own volunteer organization for at risk middle school girls in North Philadelphia. Youth Art Redefining Needlework (Y.A.R.N.), is a knitting circle that provides goal setting and achievement, as well as strong female role models. I eventually hope to move this group to a place where the girls can be at peace with nature and even make and sell crafts to support a cause of their choice. I have many hobbies and interests. Obviously knitting and anything crafty, including sewing, drawing, etc., ballet, biking, yoga and learning and listening to all different types of music. I particularly like jazz with a gyspy influence and braziliam jazz, such as astrud gilberto. I love to read, mostly non-fiction and poetry. Some of my favorites are Neruda, Federico Garcia-Lorca, Mary Oliver and Rumi. I love anything associated with Paris, especially if it is chocolate, a pastry, champagne, repetto ballet shoes, or a film. I also love to travel and hope to add spiritual destinations.