Meet Alicia!
Hello everyone!
My name is Alicia Marrero and I am the new social work intern for the semester. I am a senior at NC State (go pack!) and I will graduate on May 6th. My goal after graduation is to go to grad school to continue my education in social work. Eventually I would like to work with high schoolers or with women who have experienced trauma. I am looking forward to having my own apartment with friends and a cat or two.
Currently, I live at home in Raleigh with my dad, uncle and a three-legged dog named Henry. My family has been my biggest support and I am forever grateful to having had individuals like them helping me.
When I am not at school or at Pullen, there are several activities that I love. You will often see me reading a good book. I generally read YA fantasy novels, but at the moment, I am reading “I’m Glad my Mom Died” by Jennette McCurdy. She discusses the mental abuse she experienced as a child star from her controlling mother. The title is a bit jarring, but the story is enthralling.
Sometimes, I stay up late playing video games, which is a new hobby as I was not interested in them when I was a kid. My two favorite games are “Pokémon” and “Mario”. I also enjoy wandering around thrift stores. On an average thrifting day, I search for certain clothing brands or look for old dolls to fix up and sell on Etsy! Also, whenever I buy something at a thrift store, I believe it is appropriate to give back to the community by donating old clothes, books and games.
I am so excited to be working at Pullen! What drew me to social work is the whole idea of helping others, understanding individuals, and trying to work with people as they try to improve their situations and those of their families. It is very eye opening to hear all the diverse stories people have to tell about their lives. It really makes you view the world in a different way. I believe it is important for everyone to expand their understandings of the complex, and for many, difficult world we live in. We all need to be aware that some people have struggles in their lives and those of us who are in a position to help should do what we can. I am so impressed with all the great work Pullen has done for the community. I decided to intern here because of how open Pullen is to people from different walks of life such as race, sexuality, backgrounds, status and beliefs. Whatever your needs, social, emotional, physical, or spiritual, Pullen has been there to help. This is unlike many other helping organizations that are more narrowly focused. I am very proud to be part of the Pullen community and I hope to be an asset to this amazing institution.
