Ryan Hundley ’26, from Lansdale, Pa., started college as an Early Education major, gaining experience working with youth and young adults, but wanted to pursue her passion more specifically through a public health lens. Once she found the Public Health program, she began to work as a wellness peer educator on campus. Her excitement stirred, especially about focusing on preventative health education for the LGBTQ+ community.

“As a queer woman myself,” Hundley explained, “I find so much meaning in helping others both in and out of my community who are negatively affected by systems in our country, as I know firsthand how frustrating it can be.”

Motivated by her personal experience, Hundley recommended The Rainbow Room be invited to a wellness event. With approval, Hundley did the organizing legwork, leading to a campus program featuring a representative from the LGBTQ+ youth center and education program, which is an initiative of Planned Parenthood Keystone.

“I got to learn even more about how amazing all the work they do is,” she explained, “and how truly important it is for queer kids and young adults.”

Hundley’s conversations with a Rainbow Room representative at the event led to her securing an internship there.

“I expressed my passions, and he was really receptive and very welcoming of my wanting to get involved. He gave me contacts to start the process. It was really so easy.”

Following up, getting the appropriate clearances, and interviewing might not sound “easy” to everyone, but for someone who married her personal passions with her career pursuits, Hundley breezed through it. Now, with graduation on the horizon, she is searching for positions as a health educator, while simultaneously chasing personal dreams.

“I also hope to travel,” she said, “and, in the next few years, move in with my partner!”