Catherine ♥︎

Hello everyone! My name is Catherine.

I’m a first-generation college student who grew up in a Salvadorian immigrant family that taught me the value of hard work and resilience. Being the first in my family to navigate college has been a blessing, but it definitely came with some trial and error along the way. That’s what makes being an intern at MTB so special because I finally get to put my hard-earned wisdom and knowledge to good use! I graduated from TCNJ with a B.S. in Psychology and am now pursuing my MSW at Rutgers. I’m excited to get to know you all and help you feel supported throughout your own journeys! A little about me: I love photography, arts & crafts, and I’m a big time yapper, so I’m always down for a good conversation.

Maria ♥︎

Hello everyone! My name is Maria, and I am currently an MSW student at Rutgers University. I am excited to join More Than Bootstraps because I know firsthand how important it is to receive guidance and mentorship as a high school student. I did not go to college right after high school because I lacked that guidance. It is never too late, but I definitely wish I did. As a first-generation college student, I want to be able to guide and mentor the young adult community as well as set a good example for my two kids who are watching my every move. 

Through this internship, I am looking forward to learning the skills necessary to be able to communicate with students and families both professionally and as a safe space, especially as I get to know the students, families, Leaders, and the MTB team. I care deeply about serving the young adult community, and I hope to support students in feeling encouraged, understood, and connected.

A few fun facts about me are that I am a mom to a 10-year-old boy and a 3-year-old girl who keep me on my toes every single day. I also enjoy trying new coffee spots and traveling with my family when possible. I am grateful to be part of MTB and excited to work with everyone while supporting and learning from one another.

Christian ♥︎

Hello everyone! My name is Christian! I am an MSW student at Rutgers University and am very excited to join More Than Boostraps as an intern. Throughout my life as a high school and college student, having a support system was extremely important to my ability to navigate the numerous challenges and maintain a positive mental state. I had to learn to trust and communicate with others around me, and in building my support system, I was able to perform academically and manage much of my school-related performance anxiety!

As an intern at More than Boostraps, I really look forward to bringing these experiences into my interactions with students at various stages of their academic journey. I hope to allow those I interact with the opportunity to feel heard and seen, without fear of being judged. I hope to have the opportunity to build valuable and lasting connections that will make our individual journeys all the more special!

A few fun facts about me: I am a huge Batman nerd (I can yap about Batman comics all day!), I participate in competitive powerlifting (I’ve squatted over 500 lbs in competition), and I am a massive fan of Shrek 2. (I can talk about every detail of the ending.) 

Anamaria ♥︎

My name is Anamaria, but you can call me Annie. I am currently a Master of Social Work student at Rutgers University. I earned my bachelor’s degree in Psychology, and I have always been passionate about supporting children, families, and communities.

I decided to pursue social work because I enjoy helping others navigate challenges and reach their goals. I feel a strong connection to More Than Bootstraps’ mission because I believe that mentorship, education, and access to opportunities can make a meaningful difference in a person’s life. Through this internship, I am excited to learn more about working with students and families, strengthen my professional skills, and contribute to the important work MTB does in the community. I look forward to building relationships with students, families, Leaders, Fellows, and the entire MTB team.

A little about me: I am originally from Colombia, and I am the proud mother of a 5-year-old son. In my free time, I enjoy cooking, traveling, and spending quality time with my family. One of my favorite things to do is take my son to parks, playgrounds, and family activities where we can have fun and create special memories together. I am grateful for this opportunity and excited to be part of the More Than Bootstraps community!

Viri ♥︎

Hi everyone! My name is Viridiana, but you can call me Viri, and I am currently pursuing my Master's in Social Work at Rutgers University. I obtained my Bachelor's Degree in Child Advocacy and Policy from Montclair State University. As a first-generation student, I am excited to join More Than Bootstraps because I would like to provide support and guidance to students who are also first in their family to obtain a higher education.

My passion for the social work field comes from being an immigrant myself and knowing that support is needed, especially when it comes to mental health and navigating new challenges. Through this internship, I am looking forward to getting to know the students, families, Leaders, and the MTB team, and I hope to support students in feeling encouraged, understood, and connected.

A few fun facts about me are that I enjoy reading, listening to true crime podcasts, and I have a 2-month-old baby. I am grateful to be part of MTB and excited for the year ahead!