my name is Valerie (she/her/hers) and I am sunshine-seeker, animal lover, avid reader, and habitual crafter from Long Beach, California. I've spent most of my life around Southern California, but was born in Honolulu and went to high school in Las Vegas.

 

I am taking the last few classes to earn an Associates in Philosophy from Long Beach City College. I will be transferring to Arizona State University in the spring of 2025, where I'll work towards a Bachelors in Interdisciplinary Studies with concentrations in English and Technical Communication.

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I live with several chronic health conditions that greatly impact my everyday life. Navigating through my chronic illness journey has been difficult, but it's what made me realize my passion for social justice and advocacy. I've been fortunate enough to work with organizations that support the chronic illness & disability communities. These opportunities have taught me the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion.

 

Although I've always been an animal lover, adopting and attempting to foster (I've had two "foster fails") animals are the reasons I care so much about animal welfare. Volunteering with rescues and nonprofits has truly been a work of heart--it's inspirational to work alongside people who are so devoted to helping such a vulnerable population. That's why I've always included animal rights and wellbeing within the scope of my advocacy.

 

I plan on using my educational, professional, and volunteer experience to work in the nonprofit sector so that I can expand the reach of my advocacy. ​I strive to make a positive impact in the world by creating a more accessible, inclusive, and empathetic society.

 

Over the years I've adopted two dogs (a nine year old Black Lab/Fox Terrier named Sophie & a fifteen year old Boston Terrier named Lola) and two cats (a Turkish Van named luci & a black cat named Mr. Beanz). I dream of filling an urban homestead with as many rescue animals (definitely not limited to just cats and dogs) possible.

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In my free time I enjoy reading, gardening, and crafting (crochet, embroidery, painting, etc.). Baseball is my favorite sport, and I'm a die hard Dodgers fan! I love going to games or simply score keeping while watching games from home. Making the trip to Spring Training or the World Baseball Classic is one of my favorite traditions. I've recently gotten into hockey and am still mourning the Kings and Bruins playoffs losses. Although I am very much a homebody, I do enjoy exploring fun food spots and art exhibits. But more often than not... I'll be spending time with my pets!