We’re happy to share that we have a new communications intern supporting Zuula this fall. Ava McKinney is a senior in high school in Richmond, Virginia. She’s passionate about language and creative expression — and we’re excited to introduce her to you!
Zuula: What do you like about language and writing?
Ava: The way someone uses language is an insight into their personality. With all of the options we have in terms of word choice and sentence structure, we can always use language to tell more than what appears on the surface. Writing gives a person the chance to really think about every word and phrase. Through writing, we can perfect the message that we want to send out.
Z: What’s something that you feel passionate about in the world right now?
A: Change is all around us right now in our lives, so what I really feel passionate about is empathy. I believe that the willingness to learn from others’ experiences is key to making the world better. And beyond that, not only do we need to learn, but we also need to use the new knowledge that we gain and apply it in the way we act. I feel passionate about looking at the change that happens in our society and growing along with it.
Z: What are your hobbies/interests?
A: I love music, new and old, and being able to get something out of each lyric that I listen to. Some of my favorites include Elton John, the Ramones, and St. Vincent. My taste definitely covers many genres. Other than music, another big hobby of mine has to be writing— mostly poetry, but I’ve done a little dabbling in other areas, as well. Mostly, it’s about the ability to express myself on a page.
Z: What’s your favorite book?
A: My favorite would have to be “Breakfast of Champions” by Kurt Vonnegut. The novel lacks a clear plot — something I enjoy because it feels much more as if we, as readers, are simply passing through the characters’ lives. Vonnegut is also known for his straightforward style, from the bulleted sentences to his declaratory voice. Every line is quick-witted and perfectly succinct.
