Meet the Interns: Oh hey, Ro!
Ever wonder who keeps these blog posts coming? Who keeps the drumbeat of our social media channels going? Well, it’s a team effort, and this summer that effort is being led by WEA’s Communications + Outreach Intern, Ro! As a current Media Studies major at the University of California, Berkeley, we couldn’t dream of anyone more ideal to be helping us to make sure our community (that’s you!) is as up-to-date and engaged with our work and partners as possible.
We’re so excited to share with you a little bit more about this communications powerhouse! Meet Ro!
Name: Roisin (Ro) Duffy
Hometown: Mill Valley, CA
If you had a superpower, what would it be (and why)?: To have the ability to control time! I often think of times when I wish I could rewind and relive a specific/memorable event, or pause a great moment so I could really take it in and appreciate it for as long as possible. Time flies when you’re having fun and loving a moment, so why not have the power to pause and/or go back and experience it all over again?
Why did you want to intern with WEA? WEA’s mission is to protect the earth and strengthen communities by equipping women with the power to do so. I think that this goal is incredibly important, as gender equality and female empowerment are elements which are often overlooked when it comes to environmental issues. However, these elements are so important to take into account as women are often the backbone of communities. I fully support WEA’s goals and I wanted an opportunity to be a part of WEA’s mission.
Tell us about a woman who inspires you. I am currently on the Cal Women’s Rowing team, and I honestly would have to say that every single girl who is a part of that team is an inspiration to me. It is truly inspiring being surrounded by such driven, hardworking, and supportive individuals—they are my motivation.
Why women and why the environment? I have always had a passion for the outdoors and the environment—I think that growing up in such a beautiful area contributed to this passion. In addition, I have always had a passion for women’s rights and gender equality. I have taken a number of Gender and Women Studies classes at Cal, which has really opened my eyes to gender related issues and has piqued my interests even more. Women are incredibly important to our communities, and we can only better our communities (and the world) by empowering women and giving them the opportunities to do so.
What does your life outside WEA look like? I am a senior at Cal majoring in Media Studies. In addition to that, I am also on the Cal Women’s Rowing team, which defines me in so many ways and is something that I truly love being a part of (go bears!). In my free time I love being outside, adventuring with my friends and my family, eating and exploring new restaurants, and of course being with my dogs.
What’s your favorite thing to do in the Bay Area? I am a Bay Area native, so being at home with my family and friends is one of my favorite things. I also love going to the beach (Stinson beach) with my dogs and swimming (when it’s not too cold!)
What are you currently reading / watching / listening to? I am currently watching the new season of Orange is the New Black and catching up on Game of Thrones! I have also been listening to a podcast called “My Favorite Murder” (which I highly recommend!).