Allow me to introduce myself. . .

Hello! Hej!

My name is Ellie and I am a 2022 Watson Fellow. I wanted to quickly introduce myself for people who may not know me well. I am currently living in Stockholm, Sweden as the first destination of my Watson Year! A post is coming about my first few days of exploration.

I grew up outside of Philadelphia, PA and Birmingham, AL. I am the youngest of 4 and am super close with my family. I am also engaged to the most amazing human I have ever met, and I miss him so so much. While it's hard being away from them for a whole year, I know they are cheering me on back home!

I am a 2022 graduate of Davidson College, where I majored in psychology and minored in anthropology. My extracurriculars included working for the Residence Life Office, being involved in dance on campus, and co-founding our Disability Advocacy Group, Davidson Disability Alliance.

A Watson year is meant to be focused on personal exploration. All aspects of myself will impact how I interpret and experience my year abroad. For example, I am a MAJOR extrovert so asking people for help isn't too daunting. I do get overwhelmed with tons of people around, so cities are sometimes too much. I identify as queer, so the intersection between disability and queerness is where I live :)

A few fast facts: I am a type 1 diabetic and 5'2". I love musical theatre and used to be an irish dancer! In recent years, I have enjoyed being creative and painting or drawing (even though I'm not very good!). I am quite clumsy, so its a miracle I have only broken one small bone in my foot. Seriously -- I was in a boot for YEARS on and off through high school and college.

My family and friends are very very important to me. I have AMAZING friends who are off doing INCREDIBLE things (know I am cheering for you!), and I can't wait to celebrate with all of them when I get back.

These are just a few tidbits about me. As this year progresses, I am sure I will change and learn and be challenged. I am glad you are here to follow along with me!