My name is Yana, I go by they/them pronouns. I work at a juice/coffee shop, so if anybody wants I can make a little heart on your latte. I am currently a philosopher major, but also making my way towards discovering marketing field. 

In 2016, my family decided to move to the U.S., which has helped me discover my love for reading. I enjoy reading philosophical novels and autobiographies of influential historical figures. In addition to that, crocheting is something that brings me peace and joy. There is something about the consistency of the thread looping around itself. 

I try my best to help out my loved ones, and the people around me. I was part of the activism club during high school, where me and a couple of other students organized an “AP inequity” project. We were helping out students with low financial income status to pay off their exams, by providing them with different resources; as well as creating petitions. This project had a significant influence on who I am today, and introduced me to a lot of great people. 

My parents always wanted me to do some sort of physical activities: soccer, synchronized swimming, track and a bunch of other sports. I hated all of that. I am not really an active person, I am more passionate about art. Even though I do not know how to draw, I enjoy learning about it and come up with different creative drawings. In October, I will be helping out my friend with a photoshoot for her art school. I believe that art is a form of self expression that makes our world a beautiful place. 

This photo was taken during my trip to the city Kemerovo in Russia. I was visiting my grandmother.It was a three day train ride, where I got to spend all that time by myself.  I could still recall the peace anf happiness I felt on that train.