Her name is Langan and it rhymes with hanging! She’s a senior at University of Maryland, soon to be an alum. She has been the Wellness Intern since January 2014. We asked her a few questions to showcase both how amazing she is and the impact she’s made at DASH.
– Why did you choose to do your internship at DASH?: I started volunteering here last summer and I wanted to see how long it would take for them to notice I never left. Just kidding, a little! I’m a public health major and I think the lack of safe housing is a HUGE but under-recognized public health crisis. I wanted to really immerse myself in that for my final internship.
– What social justice issue are you most passionate about?: I am all about reproductive justice and comprehensive sexual education that isn’t cissexist or heteronormative. I also see a lot of classism in the current feminist discourse and I want to see that shut down. I could also go on and on about barriers to effective mental health services, and specifically stigma as a barrier. And—housing for everyone, now!
– What has been your favorite moment while working at DASH: Lots of the most *important* moments for me weren’t fun at all—they were hard. The favorite moments usually involved holding a baby. If I could relive one moment, it would be the Winter Wonderland Talent Show Extravaganza! We have amazingly talented residents!!!
– What are your plans for after DASH: Why would you ask a graduating senior that question?! I hope I’ll either be doing something involving sexual health education or providing direct services to people who have experienced/are experiencing violence and homelessness. I also am considering watching Buffy the Vampire Slayer. *Editors Note: Langan recently accepted a position as a full time advocate at DASH – welcome aboard!
– What is your spirit animal?: I’m pretty sure I was a whale in a former life! Contact me personally if you are interested in a longer discussion re: whales.
What staff say about Langan:
“Langan took the Wellness Program to a new level! She really made the Community Health and Wellness Internship her own, and sets the bar high for whomever follows her.”
“Langan has made such a big impact on wellness program at DASH. Plus she’s fun, organized, and likes whales. She is also extremely skilled at bulletin board upkeep and maintenance. I am excited that she will be staying with us permanently.”
