“As someone who comes from a fairly small town in rural Ohio, living in a community has made moving to a city a much more comfortable and enjoyable experience.” – Chris Steiner
Originally from Kidron, Ohio, Chris Steiner graduated from Eastern Mennonite University in 2016 with a degree in Biochemistry. He was involved in the school’s Community Adviser program, in which he held a leadership position in his underclassmen dorm, planning weekly activities and facilitating community among residents. He also participated in the Middle East Cross Cultural study abroad program, where he studied the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, among other issues. His hobbies include all forms of athletic competition, hiking, and biking. He is serving at East End Cooperative Ministry.
Brigid O’Hara: What has been the most valuable part of the PULSE experience so far?
Chris Steiner: I would say that communal living has been the most valuable part of PULSE so far. Living with a bunch of people that have similar goals and aspirations helps you to individually shape a goal of your own and be inspired to work toward it.
Brigid: What have you enjoyed most about living in community?
Chris: As someone who comes from a fairly small town in rural Ohio, living in a community has made moving to a city a much more comfortable and enjoyable experience. Another positive aspect of living in a community is the family meals that we share together. Our family meals are good ways to get together, enjoy each others company, and to de-stress at the end of the day.
Brigid: What’s your favorite “family meal” recipe for the house?
Chris: My go-to meal is always Thai green curry. My roommate in college used to make it all the time and I loved not only the taste of it but its simplicity. I thought I would bring it to my PULSE community and so far it has been a crowd pleaser!
Brigid: What surprised you most about Pittsburgh?
Chris: I definitely was surprised at how many events and ways to stay busy there are here, not only on the weekends but also during the work week!
Brigid: What is the most interesting/fun adventure you’ve had in Pittsburgh so far?
Chris: I have been to a couple really cool concerts such as the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra Brass Spectacular, and attended a Hilary Clinton rally at a local high school.
Story by PULSE Participant Brigid O’Hara.
Read more Participant Stories from Fellows 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: