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Maggie has been volunteering at SWB Baltimore since the Spring of 2016 and assists with all of the middle school teams.
Where are you from?
I am from Providence, Rhode Island.
What is your current job/school and why did you choose it?
I am currently a junior at Loyola University Maryland studying Psychology and Sociology. I chose to come to Baltimore for a variety of reasons including its location and the new opportunities that it would provide me with. I had never previously been to Baltimore, but I was very open to living in a new city along the east coast, and also found its proximity to D.C. appealing. I also wanted to live somewhere with a more diverse population.
What are some highlights from your playing history?
One of my favorite parts of playing soccer throughout my life was the aspect of being a part of a team. Throughout high school, I met some of my closest friends through soccer. Due to our shared passion for the sport and the hard work we put into the team, our friendships expanded both on and off the field.
What inspires you to work with SWB?
I have realized that I find a new reason to be inspired to work with SWB each day that I am there. One of the things that stands out to me most, however, is the program’s emphasis on inclusion and its celebration of diversity. In a political climate where the voices of marginalized groups, especially children, are silenced, SWB provides an environment where these voices are not only heard but respected, encouraged, and valued. These kids are given an opportunity to explore their full potential, and receive support and empowerment towards a successful future. I am so beyond thankful to not only be part of program that promotes and empowers the growth of its students, but to be a direct witness to their success and increased comfort with each other and as themselves.
Did you have any key mentors or people who deeply influenced who you are, what you believe in and what you’re committed to in your work and life? Tell us about them!
My mom has been a very influential person in my life, shaping and inspiring many of my passions and beliefs. I have been raised with a strong emphasis on the importance of open-mindedness and acceptance of all people, regardless of any differences they may have from me. Coming from an Indian and Irish family, my mom has always taught us about the importance of diversity. As a female physician, she has also experienced a lot of discouragement regarding the “difficulty of raising children if she is working all the time” or “why she didn’t just become a nurse instead.” However, my mom is one of the most hardworking people I know and has constantly shown me by example, that no one’s ethnicity, gender, race, religion, etc. should determine what they are or are not capable of. This has been something I constantly try to remind myself of, and advocate for, as I pursue my passions and explore possibilities for the future.