Ranya is a Program Coordinator at Spark the Journey where she helps manage a caseload of student-mentor pairs for Spark’s high school program. She serves as a resource and support system for high school students and their mentors to help ensure our students are developing a meaningful relationship with their mentor and cultivating the skills they need to achieve college and/or career success. Learn more about Ranya in the interview below:
What college did you attend?
I attended Florida State University where I received a bachelor’s degree in International Affairs.
If you could learn to do anything, what would it be?
So many things, but the first that comes to mind is learning to play instruments or being musically inclined. I like to give myself private singing concerts, but it’d be nice to add some instruments and make music. Also, becoming a polyglot!
What do you enjoy doing in your free time?
Anything arts related. I especially like painting and watching films. I also enjoy baking, exploring new places, and meeting new people.
If you could meet anyone, who would it be?
Many people inspire me. I’ll say Bob Ross because I feel like it’d be an interesting conversation and I would leave that meeting feeling more optimistic than ever. Plus, he could teach me how to paint happy little trees.
What three traits define you?
The three traits that best describe me are curious, creative, and thoughtful.
What’s the most rewarding aspect about your role at Spark?
Getting to know the stories of all the people I work with and seeing them achieve their goals. This includes our students, families, mentors, and all my teammates.
What is your favorite part about working for Spark?
How driven everyone involved is towards our mission of empowering students! I also really appreciate the support systems we’ve created within our teams and with our students. We can all lean on and reach out to each other.