Meet our new team member: Adrian Gonzalez

We’re pleased to introduce you to Adrian Gonzalez, our office's new Communications Intern. We asked him a few get-to-know-you questions so you can learn more about him and his background.

Q: Where are you from?

A: I’m from McAllen, TX, a city in the Rio Grande Valley. It’s about a five-hour drive south of Austin, but the authentic Mexican food, swaying palm trees, and loving people make the dreadful drive totally worth it.

Q: What is your educational background?

A: I am currently in my final semester at St. Edward’s University. In May, I will be graduating with a Bachelor’s Degree in Journalism & Digital Media and a minor in Communication.

Q: Where did you work before joining our office?

A: Through my four years at St. Edward’s, I’ve been involved in several extracurricular activities that have contributed to my overall learning experience. I am working with the school's Recreation & Wellness department, currently write for Hilltop Views, and participated in a service immersion trip in Los Angeles, Cali. last spring.

Hilltop Views, the student-run newspaper of SEU, is where I’ve been able to work as a graphic designer, staff writer, and Sports Editor. As a section editor, I work directly with staff writers to ensure that they produce quality articles by editing their stories and helping them develop as better journalists. Though I enjoy writing about sports, I’m mainly drawn to storytelling and sharing the interesting experiences that other people have gone through.

Whether it be through written articles, photo essays or video projects, I have been able to contribute to the school’s newspaper while also strengthening my digital media skills.

Q: What will you be working on for the Office of Sustainability?

A: I'm so excited to work alongside such knowledgeable and determined individuals as the office’s Communication Intern. During my internship, I will use my digital media and communication background to inform Austinites about the city’s Community Climate Plan, reducing carbon emissions, and living sustainably. Being a part of a team that works tirelessly to combat climate issues is what I find most rewarding.

Q: What is your favorite thing to do in Austin?

A: My favorite thing about Austin is the abundance of natural spaces. I also enjoy the coffee shops, local restaurants, and unique stores located on South Congress.

Q: What is your favorite sustainable thing you do in your personal life?

A: My favorite way to practice a sustainable lifestyle would be minimizing single-use items and relying on reusable methods instead. Being conscious of sustainability, such as switching from plastic water bottles to reusable bottles or replacing single-use K-cups with a reusable K-cup, has made such a difference in the way I live. I’m always open to learning different ways on how to reduce my footprint as well as how to compost and reduce waste.

Q: Are you a dog person or cat person?

A: Perhaps the single-most challenging question humanity has ever faced. Personally, this is a tough one. Growing up, my family had a few dogs that I grew fond of. But, more recently, I’ve had a few cats appear at my family’s house and stick around for the cuddling and food (mostly, just for the food).

But if I had to choose, I’d have to go with dogs. Their loyalty, playfulness, and endless love doesn’t compare. In fact, I plan on adopting a dog after I graduate!