Michael is currently in his third year at Fordham University (GO Rams!) working toward a degree in Humanitarian Studies. He volunteered with our volunteer program in the summer of 2016 and loved it so much he returned in January for another turn, this time working with the Strategy and Innovation team – putting his creativity and passion into action. Here he answers a series of questions that reveal a little more about who he is and what motivates him. 

Where is home? I was born in New Jersey and grew up in Georgia, but now I call New York home until I graduate. I moved to New York in 2014 for undergrad and since then I have been taking classes, working various jobs on and off campus, and learning a couple of instruments in my spare time.

Education: Getting my B.A. in Humanitarian Studies from Fordham University.

michael

CMMB volunteer post: Communications intern for the Strategy and Innovation Team and the Volunteer Program.

If you were asked to sum yourself up in two words, which two would you choose? Crazed and Cozy.

Why CMMB? CMMB has a global reach that is astounding, and its great to be around the team that makes it all work.

What are you most proud of? My parents who made everything I have done possible.

Imagine you are stuck in an elevator. Who would you most like to be stuck with? And why? Fred Armisen because he’s absolutely hilarious and he would help me pass the time.

You are featured in the NY Times or your national newspaper. What’s the headline? Man Seen Flying Over City Skyline.

What would be your theme song? “All Over You” by Leisure.

Imagine if you were an animal or instrument – which would you be and why? I’d be a black bear so I can eat berries and fresh salmon all day; then sleep for half the year.

What is your hope for your experience volunteering with CMMB? I want to leave knowing more than I came in with and hopefully help CMMB make a positive impact.

Favorite quote: “When people who are tolerably fortunate in their outward lot do not find in life sufficient enjoyment to make it valuable to them, the cause generally is, caring for nobody but themselves.” – John Stuart Mill

What book should everyone read? Why? I don’t have a book that everyone should read since I think taste varies too much, but I’ll recommend The Sea is My Brother by Jack Kerouac because its not too long and offers an entertaining story.

Who would you like to play you in the movie of your life? Keanu Reeves.

What is your hope for the future? To never stop improving.

Favorite speech or Ted Talk: Sam’s speech at the end of Lord of the Rings always gets me. “I can’t carry it for you, but I can carry you.” Chills…

If you could solve one world problem, what would it be? A safe, unlimited energy source for all would be helpful.

What are the three things you are most grateful for? Music, hands, and friends.

Who is your biggest inspiration? Why? Wim Hof, “The Iceman,” was able to train himself to withstand prolonged exposure to freezing temperatures that would likely have killed any other man. His method, which he teaches to willing students, proves that humans are a lot more powerful than we suspect.