Esther was born and raised in Southern California but has lived in Rhode Island and now New York. The east coast just keeps calling her back. At 826LA, she worked mainly on in-school projects and loves that at 826NYC she can help out in other capacities like storytelling and bookmaking field trips! She’s currently a grad school student and in her downtime she’s off exploring the city. 

1. How did you first get involved with 826NYC and why did you decide to volunteer?

I became involved with 826NYC when I moved out to NY for grad school because I had originally been a volunteer and then staff member at 826LA. I love the fact that I can still have a piece of home at a different 826 chapter with equally amazing students and staff.

2. What’s your favorite part of volunteering at 826NYC?

EVERYTHING. But if I have to be super specific I would say that my favorite part is getting to be a part of the creative writing process with students. I love hearing their unique brainstorming ideas, reading their cliffhanger endings, and seeing them leave with copies of their original work bound together in a book. It makes my heart happy.

3. What do you do when you’re not at 826NYC?

Reading, Running and finishing my Masters in Education at Teachers College, Columbia University.

4. What advice would you give a new volunteer?

Just go with it. Sometimes there are last minute changes, or the printer’s acting funny but regardless of what happens you’re guaranteed to make the most out of your volunteer time if you’re flexible.

5. What are your super powers?