“The best part of the PULSE experience is being able to transition into the professional world with other young adults going through the same experience.” – Kristen Hochreiter
Kristen Hochreiter is no stranger to Pittsburgh, having spent the past four years at the University of Pittsburgh earning her Bachelor of Social Work with Certificates in Global and African Studies. During her time in college, Kristen held leadership positions with Facilitating Opportunities for Refugee Growth and Empowerment (FORGE) and Bachelor of Social Work Club, studied abroad in Uganda, and tutored students at Miller African Centered Academy. In her free time, Kristen loves to play the saxophone, clarinet, and piano, and explore the great outdoors. She is serving at the Acculturation for Justice, Access and Peace Outreach (AJAPO) alongside Jordan West.
Ben Graber: What do you enjoy most about your nonprofit partnership?
Kristen Hochreiter: I really enjoy being able to use my social work degree in a practical way. I’m working as a case manager with vulnerable refugee and immigrant families. It’s a good use of my gifts and a good learning environment. I also enjoy being able to interact with diverse communities and learn from them.
Ben: What do you love about Pittsburgh?
Kristen: I love that there are so many things to do around the city including arts, cultural and entertainment-related activities. There are a lot of hidden treasures to discover.
Ben: What is the best part of the PULSE experience?
Kristen: The best part of the PULSE experience is being able to transition into the professional world with other young adults going through the same experience.
Ben: What’s your favorite “family meal” recipe?
Kristen: My favorite meal was one that was shared among the East End community at one of our weekly potlucks which included meatloaf and mashed potatoes.
Ben: How has PULSE inspired you to live/think/act differently?
Kristen: Being a part of PULSE has inspired me to step outside my comfort zone, to try things that I was previously intimidated by, both professionally and personally.
Story by PULSE Participant Ben Graber.
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: