Hello world!
I've decided to use this space to introduce myself and share a little of what Fellows has looked like for me so far. My name is Sofia Stroven and I am so happy to be here in Raleigh for Fellows! I grew up in Pinehurst NC, and attended UNC-Wilmington. I’ll always tell everyone that living at the beach was the most magical time of my life. Some things I enjoy are being outside, hiking, thrifting, baking (and eating) sourdough, cooking, traveling, and crafting. It's important to know that I have worked in coffee since I was 15 years old and still love my job as a barista to this day. My dream is to one day own a coffee shop somewhere on the coast of NC. My job placement as a fellow is at Fount Coffee + Kitchen in Morrisville. So far my position at Fount has only served to help deepen my love and understanding for hospitality. I remember so clearly my first day feeling so encouraged by the way one owner named George explained his heart behind this business. Our mission statement at Fount is to always serve in a way that is excellent, intentional and joyful — knowing our efforts bear lasting impact. Working at Fount has been very different from past work environments. It seems cliche but I really feel like I am learning something new everyday. This can vary from efficiencies to ways to better make a guest feel seen. All that to say, work has been fun and I am grateful for the consistency it brings into my weekly schedule. The past few weeks have definitely been an adjustment and I am eager to continue to settle more into this space. Getting to know and do life with the other Fellows has been such a joy so far and I can hardly believe it's only been three weeks. They make me laugh hard and the ways they walk in their faith draws me nearer to the Lord. So far we’ve had our welcome retreat at the lake together, shared testimonies over the past few weeks, had weekly dinners, served in youth groups, and much more in between. One thing that really drew me to the Raleigh Fellows program was knowing it would serve as a foundation for all future endeavors. I am eager to begin classes to start building that foundation.
Peace and Love,
Sofia Stroven