Sophia (she/her) is a rising Senior at SUNY New Paltz where she is majoring in English. She hopes to pursue a career in law after college and has an interest in social justice and storytelling. We are excited to have her on the TMI Project team this summer!

What do you most look forward to as the TMI Project summer intern?

I’m excited by the stories of our workshop participants. With every new story I hear, I learn more about the levels of social injustice that various people in our community, and the country as a whole, experience day-to-day. I look forward to the opportunity to be a part of an organization that is initiating social change and creating a sense of hope, especially in our current cultural climate.

Why are you passionate about TMI Project’s mission to change the world, one story at a time?

I believe that when people get up on stage and tell their “TMI” stories, it has a lasting impact on audiences and initiates large scale change. TMI Project gives people an opportunity to amplify their voice. I’m hoping to begin law school next year, and the stories that I’ve heard in my short time with TMI Project have deepened my knowledge of social injustice and inspired me to use that newfound knowledge to initiate change on the legal level once I begin my career.

Do you have a favorite TMI Project story? Why?

I love so many of the TMI Project stories, but one story that really impacted me was Samuel Brinton’s within the LifeLines project. Sam’s story opened my eyes to the need to be more socially aware of the institutions in place to oppress the LGBTQ+ population. It was my first time experiencing the effects of TMI Project. I realized that the mission really does initiate change in people’s perspectives because it happened to me.

At TMI Project, we love story prompts. So here’s one for you: What message would you tell your younger self if you could?

I guess I would tell my younger, teenage self to control what you can and to not take life so seriously. Every day I’m learning to control what I can and be more focused on the present. 

What’s one thing about you that people may not expect by looking at you?

I’m Puerto Rican and German, which a lot of people can’t figure out by looking at me. Growing up Puerto Rican and German gave me exposure an amazing mix of foods, customs, and traditions!

Are you interested in being the next TMI Project intern or know someone who is a perfect fit? Email blake@tmiproject.org for more information.