Get to know YWLP Big Sister, Kristi Vandygriff!

Year: Fourth
Major: Secondary Education and English
Hometown: Williamsburg, Virginia

What do you miss most about your hometown when you're at UVA?
The obvious answer to this is my family and friends, who I truly do miss while I'm here. Aside from that, I would say I miss the community aspect of Williamsburg. It's hard to go somewhere without seeing someone you know, and I love catching up with people when I'm there.

Why are you passionate about your program at the Women's Center?
YWLP has given me a chance to become more involved in the Charlottesville community. I have had the wonderful opportunity to watch an amazing young woman grow into a bright, passionate and loving friend. Making any small difference in the lives of the young women we work with has been one of the most rewarding experiences I've had here at UVA.

What made you choose UVA over other schools you applied to?
UVA was somewhere I applied to simply because I knew it was a great school. I truly fell in love when I came for a tour after I was accepted. I loved the beauty and tradition of UVA, and when I was walking around something just clicked and felt like home. I also knew I wanted to pursue teaching as a career and the Curry School of Education is one of the best in the country.

What has surprised you about UVA?
It sounds cheesy, but I've been pleasantly surprised by the friendships I have formed here. I have become great friends with some of the best people I've ever met. They're caring, hard-working, fun and supportive, and have taught me so much about life.

What's a fun fact you'd like people to know about you?
I can lick my elbow! It's a strange thing and I do have to stretch some before I do it, but I can and I know it's weird!

If you could have coffee with anyone from history, who would it be and why?
I'm not sure if she's considered "from history" yet, but I would love to sit down with Ellen DeGeneres. I love everything she's about, she makes me laugh and smile, she's so good to people, and I just think we could be great friends!