“I feel like I’m living and acting more intentionally, which has been a major opportunity for self-growth.”
A graduate of Bryn Mawr College, Emma majored in International Studies with a focus on Gender and minored in Sociology and Film/Media Studies. Emma was a Girl Scout member from ages 6 to 18, and over her time with the organization, she had many opportunities to participate in community service. One of her favorite experiences was volunteering with the Miracle League, where she and her family helped with fundraising and assisted players who needed extra help. Accessibility has been a passion within Emma’s family ever since her younger brother was born with severe disabilities. Emma’s hobbies include film production, social justice activism & advocacy, writing (both fiction and non-fiction), traveling, volunteering, and international affairs. Emma is a part of the Northside cohort and serves at The Global Switchboard. Emma was interviewed by Alyssa Miville.
Alyssa: How has PULSE inspired you to live/think/act differently?
Emma: It has encouraged me to become more involved in the community and educate myself about the history of Pittsburgh and how it affects the daily lives of its citizens today. I am also more conscious of my daily habits, my food consumption, my gas consumption, even just how I manage my time. I feel like I’m living and acting more intentionally, which has been a major opportunity for self-growth.
Alyssa: What have you enjoyed most about living in community? How have you and your housemates pushed/encouraged one another?
Emma: I really enjoy the camaraderie and resources that come with living in an intentional community. People in PULSE never hesitate to share news, events, food… we’re constantly helping each other out and providing support when we can. My house is the same way; we take care of each other and encourage each other to try new things and be our best selves.
Alyssa: What have you enjoyed most about your nonprofit partnership?
Emma: I have really enjoyed the opportunities that come with my nonprofit partnership. We are always traveling to cool events around the city and meeting lots of people within the nonprofit sector. I feel like I have really developed my career network and even made some friends too.
Alyssa: What’s your favorite “family meal” recipe for the house?
Emma: I love our Taco Tuesdays.
Alyssa: How do you like to spend your morning and evening commute?
Emma: I usually listen to music or my favorite podcasts. It puts me in a good mood to start the day.
Alyssa: What are three words you would use to describe your PULSE year so far?
Emma: Enriching, motivating, busy.
Alyssa: What is the most interesting/fun adventure you’ve had in Pittsburgh so far?
Emma: I’m taking a ceramics class, which I’ve always wanted to do!
Alyssa: Tell me something you are learning about yourself through PULSE.
Emma: I’ve learned that it’s important for me to have multiple outlets for expression: creative, social, physical, etc.
Read more Fellow Stories about their experience in PULSE. If you would like to learn more about the PULSE program, please visit our Serve with Us page.
Also, check out other Stories of Transformation: