Meet the Interns: Alexandra Fernandez

(Gainesville Office)

1. Tell us a little about yourself...

My name is Alexandra Fernandez, but please call me Alex. I'm a junior at the University of Florida majoring in journalism and minoring in women's studies. I was born and raised in Miami, so I am constantly craving pastelitos and croquetas. I'm passionate about writing, social justice and short hair. In my spare time I love to read, binge watch shows on Netflix, yell about Harry Styles on the internet and try to be funny. Give me a Twix and I'll love you forever.

2. Why are you involved with LGBT activism?

I've been growing as a social justice advocate since high school, and through experiences such as being UF's Inter-Residence Hall Association's Social Justice Director and attending a social justice leadership retreat called Gatorship, I've felt called to combine my interests of writing and communications with my passions for social justice. I have never experienced injustices based on my sexual orientation, but that doesn't mean I shouldn't stand up for those who have. I hope that through my work at Equality Florida I can help create a more equal and just world for all, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.

3. Why did you want to intern at Equality Florida?

This internship seemed like the perfect opportunity to combine my interests and studies. As a journalism major, I'm passionate about telling stories and communicating honestly with the world. As a women's studies minor I am passionate about social justice and making sure that all people have equal access to opportunities. Equality Florida is an organization that does meaningful work, and as a communications intern I can contribute to that work by telling the stories of those whose voices need to be heard.

4. What are your plans after you graduate?

That's a heavy question that I don't totally know the answer to yet. I'm hoping to combine communications and social justice in some way in my future career, possibly by writing for a blog or publication that focuses on social justice issues or doing communications work for a nonprofit organization involved with a cause I believe in.

Stay tuned next week for the next blog post in our "Meet The Interns" series!