My name is Tabitha Carranza, and at 29 years old, storytelling has been a defining aspect of my life journey. From the halls of St. Francis de Sales Catholic School, where I spent my formative years from preschool through 8th grade, to my later education at Notre Dame High School and Martin Luther King Jr. High School, storytelling has been my constant companion.

 

As a child in elementary school, I often found myself lost in the world of imagination, crafting tales in my notebook instead of focusing on the lesson at hand. One recurring theme was a series of stories about a girl and her adventures with her 12 dogs. While my teachers may have despaired at my lack of attention, these stories were the spark that ignited my passion for storytelling.

 

Through the trials and triumphs of adolescence, storytelling remained my refuge—a way to make sense of the world and express my innermost thoughts and emotions. Whether it was through journaling, poetry, or elaborate narratives, I found solace in the act of putting pen to paper and giving voice to the stories within me.

 

Even as I navigated the complexities of high school and beyond, storytelling remained a constant thread weaving through the fabric of my life. It was during these formative years that I began to recognize the power of storytelling to bridge gaps, foster connections, and inspire change.

 

After completing my journey through academia, I earned my Bachelor's degree in Journalism from California State Polytechnic University and pursued further education to obtain a Master's in Digital Marketing from Southern New Hampshire University. These academic pursuits honed my skills and deepened my understanding of the ever-evolving landscape of storytelling in the digital age.

 

Now, as an adult working full-time in digital marketing, I find joy in the balance between my professional responsibilities and my enduring love for writing. While my career may revolve around digital strategies and marketing campaigns, storytelling remains at the heart of everything I do.

 

I have explored various forms of storytelling, from poetry and short stories to songs, screenplays, and novels. Throughout my journey, I have also contributed to school newspapers, writing articles covering a range of topics from news to opinion pieces.

 

As I reflect on the twists and turns of my journey, I'm filled with gratitude for the path that has led me to this moment. From the imaginative scribbles of my childhood notebooks to the structured narratives of my academic pursuits, storytelling has been the guiding force that has shaped my life in profound ways.

 

Now, as I embark on this new chapter of writing for Stroll Alessandro Heights, I am filled with excitement and anticipation. It's an opportunity to connect with my fellow neighbors, to delve into the rich tapestry of our community, and to celebrate the stories that make Alessandro Heights such a special place to call home.

 

I look forward to meeting each of you, to sharing your stories, and to shining a spotlight on the vibrant spirit of our neighborhood. Together, let us weave a narrative that celebrates our shared experiences, fosters connections, and illuminates the unique essence of Alessandro Heights.