EMPRESS

About me: I was born and raised in San Jose, California, before moving to Orlando. My hobbies include third-wheeling, sleeping in, and criticizing other people's parking. Fun fact: chicken nuggets + sweet and sour sauce = the ultimate way to my heart.

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Why EMPRESS? From the start, I knew EMPRESS was different from other orgs. I remember attending my first recruitment event and being so nervous that I would stutter my words in front of the members at the speed dating event. But they were never judgmental or made me feel ashamed. Instead, they assured me that I was in a safe space and made me feel comfortable to open up more. I loved the chill vibes of the group. I joined because I fell in love with the mission and what it stands for. I loved the idea of sisterhood without sacrificing individuality, and I immediately saw that at the recruitment events through the diverse involvements and personalities each of the girls have. But I knew was craving something more than just a sisterhood - something more than just a group of girls that connected by calling themselves "family". What I love the most is that this family is connected through one mission - to bring a better, more unique community here to UF. Although each member is individually unique, we all share one common goal that brings us together as a sisterhood as we push each other to achieve our goals. I craved the meaningful connections and genuine nature of the group; the high sense of achievement of contributing to a greater goal. I knew I wanted leave my legacy at UF as a pioneer. This was what I was looking for as a naive freshman.

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Favorite EMPRESS memory: All the road trips with the girls! I can't count how many there's been, or even the memories we've made on those trips. Road trips are my favorite EMPRESS memory because I got to bond with my EMPRESS family on a deeper level.

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