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photo by Agata Schoenborn

My passion: Psychology. I read a book of case studies in abnormal psychology when I was 12 and I've been hooked ever since!

Favorite web site: jumpbecause.com. It's a collection of jumping photos and stories from around the world. What is a jumping story? It's your "I jump because…" statement-the inspiration for your jump.

My hometown: Haslett, Michigan

If I were a superheroine, I would be: The Heroine of Healthy Habits! I'd teach people about the importance of eating fresh, local produce and whole foods.

Words I live by: Make Good Decisions. My high school economics teacher said this to us every Friday before we were dismissed from class.

If I had a vanity plate on my car, it would say: JUMP

I'd like to learn to: Knit, kayak, salsa dance, play the guitar, and speak another language.

My favorite possession: My Rasta bike. It's green with red and yellow wheels. It was a Christmas present to myself, and I love riding it around Richmond.

I can't live without: Bananas. I eat about 4 a day.

The worst idea I've ever had: At 12, I used a pair of scissors to sculpt my eyebrows!

The most important thing I ever lost: My dad and I kept in touch through letters. He passed away a few years ago, and I wish I'd managed to hang on to all of them.

I wish I'd known: That I really could do anything I set my mind to.

What keeps me awake at night: Frustration that abstinence-only sex education is still the norm in many areas of our country.

My best friend says I am: "Beautiful, creative, and a great giver of advice," says Tara, who I have been friends with since 4th grade.

One thing I never want to do again: I didn't vote in the 2000 election; I will never again pass up that opportunity.

Always... Treat yourself with the same compassion and respect you'd show to someone you care deeply for.

Never... Make someone a priority who treats you as an option.