Get to know YWLP intern, Elizabeth O'Roark! 

Year: Fourth Year
Major: English (Spanish Minor)
Hometown: Atlanta, Georgia

1. Why are you passionate about your program at the Women's Center?
I am passionate about the Young Women Leaders Program because I have been able to see how it helps to empower the girls who participate in it. They have a safe space where they can learn to express themselves and where they know that they will be heard.  I had a wonderful experience as a big sister and still spend time with my little sister from last year, Guadalupe. I developed a support network of strong women that I will be forever grateful for. This program allows both the college women and middle school girls to learn about themselves and grow as leaders together

2. Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
I hope to be a public defender or be doing work related to criminal justice reform.

3. What other organizations are you involved with at UVA?
I am on the professional development committee for my pre-law organization, Phi Alpha Delta, and I have volunteered on many projects with Madison House.

4. What is your favorite memory of UVA thus far?
My favorite memory at UVA is when I went to Carter’s Mountain with my roommates. We all got to take a break from the stress of school and spend time together eating those yummy apple cider donuts (and picking apples of course). 

5. What is something you know you do differently than other people?
I always manage to get some kind of food on my face no matter what I eat. Most people have figured out the eating process by now, but I have not. I can eat a cupcake and get icing on my eyebrow. It’s a great mystery. My best friend’s dad growing up said that he had never seen anyone enjoy food more. 

6. What is your guilty pleasure?
I love watching reality competition shows like Big Brother and Survivor. I find it fascinating how people interact with each other within these social competitions.