Introducing Elena

Hi, welcome to the blog. I’m Elena. Let me show you around. I’m trying to make sense of a messy world and use my voice for good. I write about my lifestyle, personal essays, and cultural commentary. I also have film, book, and music reviews available.

Fine Arts is the largest section here. I like to talk about movies, music, and books as an English major. I like analyzing characters, aesthetics, pacing, and other story elements. I also like to write poetry on occasion, so I’ll share some of that sometimes.

My Lifestyle posts are little snapshots of the practicalities of post-grad life in 2026. From finding jobs to quitting jobs to completing grad school, my professional journey has been unique, but whose isn’t in this world?

Reflections are for my more complicated musings on society or emotions. I write essays about my family, my values, and my views on labels like “disabled” or “misinformation”. The world is messy, but I’m trying to make sense of it.

I love to go on adventures, so my Travel section is full of exciting stories. My study abroad semester in 2019 was particularly poignant, so I have a plethora of reflections on that journey. I also took an amazing trip to Naxos, Greece in April 2024, and a handful of trips to the North Shore with my partner.

As I navigate adulthood, I love discovering new recipes and restaurants. My Food page has some easy and delicious meals to try, and reviews of underrated restaurants in the Twin Cities area.

And finally, my Portfolio is for my very best professional and academic work. I take pride in my projects, and I love having a single place to showcase them all.

Welcome to my story in progress. It’ll be a fun ride.