Alumni Spotlight

Justin Brown

Brown attended the seminar in 2014 as a representative from Ellsworth High School. He graduated from the University of Maine in 2020 with a B.S. in Physics and a Minor in Mathematics. 

Brown is currently a Graduate Assistant for Leadership Development and Student Organizations in The Center for Student Involvement at The University of Maine.

He took the time to answer some questions about his Maine Youth Leadership experience and how it has impacted his life. Keep reading to learn more about this outstanding alum.

How do you show the MYL pillar of character in your daily life?

My character is my most valued part of my identity. I strive to make sure that my actions are informed by my personal values and that I am always aware of how my actions may impact those around me.

How do you show the MYL pillar of leadership in your daily life?

With my GA position, I have been able to develop leadership lectures, workshops, and conferences to help UMaine students (and students in Maine) learn more about their leadership styles and identity. MYL created a wonderful leadership foundation for me to build off of; everyday I try to lead through my personal values, charisma, and confidence.  

How would you say MYL impacted your trajectory in life? (the decisions you made, the things you did, etc.)

The lessons and skills I learned from MYL definitely propelled me to continue on my leadership journey and live authentically. I’ve become much more confident in my ability to inspire others to take initiative and enact change. I’ve also learned that I really enjoy helping others, which is why I want to pursue a career in ultrasonic research and medical acoustics.

Did any MYL relationship help you along your way? (JC, SF, AC, fellow alum, etc.) and if so, how?

I am forever grateful to all of the OUTSTANDING mentors, staff, and alumni that I had the pleasure of interacting with during my handful of years at MYL. I continue to be impressed by the wonderful work they do. Shoutout to the 2016 JC group: Y’all have a special place in my heart! During my time as an ambassador in 2014, I also met my forever best friend (without even knowing it). We both later attended UMaine and instantly reconnected - so thank you MYL for blessing me with Taylor Houdlette!

What is your fondest memory from your MYL experience?

My fondest memories from MYL would absolutely have to be the JC hangouts at the end of each day. It was always a fun time to debrief on the day’s events and get to know my fellow JCs even more.  

What might someone be surprised to learn about you?

I truly enjoy talking to people I have never met before...

What gives you hope?

For each new day, there’s a new opportunity that may present itself.

What gets you particularly fired up?

Social injustices that are fueled by capitalism and the white heteropatriarchy. 

Any fun hobbies?

I really enjoy kayaking around different ponds/lakes in Maine and setting up my hammock on the islands I stumble upon.

If you are a Maine Youth Leadership alum and you’d like to share your story, please email Maria NeCastro at mariatnecastro@gmail.com.

Thank you for reading!

[Published online: 5/3/2021]