# data[].attributes.body
Hello everyone! My name is Rikiya Matthews, I am a second year Pre-Nursing student from Grand Rapids, Michigan. I plan to become either a Pediatric or PACU registered nurse. I'm excited to meet you all and hope everyone has an amazing year!

# data[].attributes.body
I have literally done almost every sport growing up. Not to say I was good at all of them but I've always been interested in trying new things. As I started to get older, I resonated with volleyball the most and that stuck with me throughout high school. I also did many things such as National Honor Society, Youth In Government as well as help starting a Diversity Student Union Group my senior year. (Which is thriving to this day!)

I'm a CNA as of right now but as far as employment I spend most of my time serving at my country club back home. I loveee listening to music-- some of my favorite artists right now would definitely be Bryson Tiller, Tyler The Creator, Drake & Jodeci (LOVEEE THEM).

Some unique qualities I have are the fact that I can socialize with any and everyone. I love to know how things work, I love hearing peoples perspectives, I love knowing why people think the way they do.

In the picture above is a picture of my little cousin and I. She is literally my whole heart, as I mentioned before I'm an only child so she serves as the little sister I always wanted.

# data[].attributes.body
Last year I got to talk in front of our city commissioners, mayor and governor about issues in our community. I chose to speak about public transportation and the effect that it has on many students and families. I cam up with the speech the night before the event and was praised by many people for being one of the best speakers there.

This event led me to not only push myself but to believe in myself as well. I became way more comfortable with being uncomfortable which is one of my long term life goals. I was able to connect with so many people people and allow those who were afraid to speak up.

Not only was this the start to my love for advocating and trying to make a change but it made me fall in love with politics and government.

# data[].attributes.body
As I mentioned before, I love politics and government. One social issue that I am passionate about would be woman rights and social injustice.

As an African American young woman who grew up in predominantly white areas, I've grown to recognize the struggles I've encountered by simply just being me. I want to implant what I wish someone would've told me earlier on.

As well as with how crazy the world is today, there are so many things that have yet to be talked about. It was pretty scary to be a young black girl in todays society.