“PULSE has allowed me to live differently than I would have outside of the program. I am now living a more minimalistic lifestyle, budgeting with my housemates as well as evaluating what might be a need or a want. This is a good thing because it is causing me to think about others needs before my own.” – Kelsey Thompson
Kelsey Thompson, originally of Honey Brook, Pennsylvania, graduated from the University of Pittsburgh with a degree in Administration Justice with a concentration in Adult and Juvenile Corrections, while minoring in Political Science. Kelsey was a member of Delta Phi Epsilon, holding a term on the executive board as Vice President of Recruitment and serving as a choreographer for Greek Sing competition. She also underwent training and served as a peer educator on sexual assault through Pitt’s health program, educating student organizations about what it means to be an active, positive bystander in the event of sexual assault. Outside of work and academics, Kelsey enjoys spending time at Phipps Conservatory, dancing, and dog watching in the park. She is serving at Best of the Batch Foundation.
Isaac Cason: How has PULSE inspired you to live/act/think diffently?
Kelsey Thompson: PULSE has allowed me to live differently than I would have outside of the program. I am now living a more minimalistic lifestyle, budgeting with my housemates as well as evaluating what might be a need or a want. This is a good thing because it is causing me to think about others needs before my own.
Isaac: What do you enjoy most about your nonprofit partnership?
Kelsey: I enjoy the dual dynamic of work and fun that my partner site provides! At any point during the week I could be spending a half day doing office work: sending emails, program planning, etc.. The second half of my day is spent with kids. I enjoy being around the children because they are super fun, hilarious, and curious about life and learning. It has been extremely rewarding to serve as a mentor.
Isaac: What is the most interesting/fun adventure you’ve had in Pittsburgh so far?
Kelsey: Going up the incline during the PULSE orientation was a moment that I got to check off of my Pittsburgh bucket list!
Isaac: What surprised you most about Pittsburgh?
Kelsey: Even though I went to Pitt, being in PULSE has allowed me to see Pittsburgh in a whole new light. Viewing the different districts and neighborhoods; the various opportunities that are offered has given me a new appreciation for the city.
Isaac: What is your favorite ‘family meal” recipe for the hosue?
Kelsey: Equiana’s bomb breaded chicken with rice and beans. I don’t have the words necessary to describe this ethereal experience.
Story by PULSE Participant Isaac Cason.
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: