Get to know Engaged Scholarship Senior Intern Abba Kodiaga!

Year: Third Year

Major: Global Public Health, minor in Urban and Environmental Planning

Hometown: Vienna, VA

What brought you to the Women's Center?

I had heard about the Women's Center through a variety of events and resources that they offered when I first got on grounds. However, it wasn't until I worked on the Men's Leadership Project that I was fully immersed in the center and what it truly could do for me as a student!

What is your favorite memory at UVA so far?

My favorite UVA memory so far was my 3rd year ring ceremony during family weekend. It was great to not only celebrate 2 years of work done at the University but also to look around and see how much of a family I have at UVA. I have truly made a home here and it feels great!

Who is a woman that inspires you and why?

I discussed this last year, but my grandmother is still a woman that inspires me today. She is a selfless individual who works hard to care for her community no matter what. She embodies "paying it forward" and "lifting as you climb". As a teacher back home in Nairobi, she focused and prioritized educating her community as she believed that when individuals have an education, they can be empowered! I strive daily to live my life like she does, with compassion, care and empathy.

What is one thing you do after a stressful day?

One thing I do after a stressful day is make a good cup of coffee, listen to great music and sit and talk with my roommates. We strive to create a community of care in our apartment and achieve this by sitting down and hearing about each other's days. I also love to go to the gym. I lift heavy when I have a heavy day!

How does your work at the Women's Center motivate you?

My work transitioning to the Engaged Scholarship program has given me a new perspective on the work that the Women's Center does. I have always wanted to connect various groups and organizations on grounds of what the Women's Center has to offer and at its core, the Engaged Scholarship program seeks ways to make meaningful connections with each other and to LEARN most importantly. This encourages and urges me to look for ways to expand my UVA circle to find commonality in difference, and to make the Women's Center a place that is reflective of all experiences and people here at UVA.

What is a podcast/TV show/movie/book/song that's grabbed your attention recently?

I watched One Day (proceed with caution) on Netflix, and have been obsessed with it since. I'm normally not a fan of rom-coms but this one was so realistic!
 

Interested in working with a student like ABBA next year? Join the Women's Center team! Learn more about the internship and mentorship opportunities available for you.