Hi! My name is Astrid and I am the newest “peer leader” here at the Center for Young Women’s Health, at Boston Children’s Hospital. I’m a typical teenage girl who loves to read, hang out with my friends, go shopping and most of all just have fun! My friends describe me as a joyful, happy, friendly, and loving.

The reason why I am writing this introductory blog is because just a few months ago I had an appointment at this very hospital for my yearly physical. My doctor (who is amazing by the way) told me that the Center for Young Women’s Health was hiring peer leaders for their Youth Advisory Program. She said that she thought I would be perfect for the position. At first I had no clue what a peer leader did so I asked her what the position was all about. When she started describing the responsibilities to me, I immediately thought to myself “Oh my gosh, I really want to become one.” My doctor was super excited when I told her that I was interested in the position. She then gave me the name and email address of the program coordinator and told me to email her as soon as possible, and that’s exactly what I did. When I got an email back from the Coordinator with an application, I didn’t hesitate to print it, complete it, and get it back to her. When she called me saying that she would like to interview me, I was so happy but nervous at the same time! I told myself to just breathe, stay calm, and try my best. When the interview was over and a couple weeks went by, I got a call. The person on the other end said “Congratulations, you got the job!” I was a little anxious, but still super excited all at the same time.

I think that becoming a peer leader will be an amazing experience. I love learning new ways to help others my age and letting them know about all the ways to stay safe and healthy. I think that this will give girls my age a reason to look up to me. I know that this job will be challenging but nothing worthwhile is ever easy! I’m very excited to start this amazing new journey.

-Astrid