Name: Katie Heinen
Age: 19
Year: Sophomore
Major: Business Marketing with a minor in English through Creative Writing
Hometown: Winnetka, Illinois
What is your position on campus? I am the president of the CU chapter of Best Buddies.
How did you originally get involved with Best Buddies? I first got involved in the organization last year, but I had done similar programs throughout my life. I grew up with a cousin who has a form of autism, so working with those who have I/DD is a very deep passion of mine.
Can you talk a little bit about your position as President of Best Buddies here at CU? Being president at CU is so amazing, as well sa challenging. It is definitely hard recruiting people to join the program, especially boys, since Colorado does not yet have a board for Best Buddies. It is also hard being as young as a Sophomore, trying to show people my excitement for this group and not always taken seriously. Other than that, it is a really incredible opportunity to get so much more involved in the program, get to know all of the buddies a little, and challenge myself to really make the program a huge success!
What do you love most about being involved in this organization? The most rewarding part of this organization is being able to get so close to some of the buddies. One of the buddies, David, became my really good friend last year. He works in Libby Dining Hall (one of the dining halls here at CU), so I used to go sit there for hours and just chat with him. The buddies always make me laugh, smile, and feel so loved!
What are some of your hobbies? Some of my hobbies include working out and being athletIc (figure skating, skiing, triathlons, running and races, hiking, etc.), being outside and active, eating, occasionally watching Netflix when I have time, doing service, and being with my family and friends.
Are you apart of any other organizations at CU? On campus, I am also apart of the Delta Gamma sorority, the Diverse Scholars Program in the Business School, and the CU Figure Skating Team.
What is your favorite place to eat in Boulder? My favorite place to eat in Boulder is The Sink, I don’t even need to look at the menu anymore!
Where do you see yourself in five years? I can’t really say where I can see myself in 5 years. I have thought about spending time in the Peace Corps, but I have also thought about different types of jobs I would love to pursue. For now, I am just seeing where life takes me!
What is your favorite memory at CU so far? I would say that my favorite memory would have to be our Valentine’s Day party with Best Buddies. It is definitely one of the events that I will never forget. One of the buddies, John (a total ladies man), made me the cutest valentine which I still keep on me to this day. It said, ‘Hey girl, you rock. Love you’. John was so excited when he gave it to me, it was such an amazing memory!
If you’re interested in getting involved in this amazing organization, you can apply for Best Buddies at www.bestbuddiesonline.org. You can also look them up on Facebook (Best Buddies at CU) and follow us on Instagram (@cubestbuddies)!