Full Name: Justin Papa
Birthday: December 22
Zodiac Sign: Capricorn
Hometown: Clovis, New Mexico
Current Town: Nashville, Tennessee
I feel the most confident when: I'm in my element surrounded by supportive people who challenge me. I've learned to be confident and comfortable in my own skin, and I truly believe that every single person has something great to offer. One of the best things about growing older is having the privileges to be selective about who and what stays within and outside of our lives, and with that control comes stability and confidence. There's nothing sexier and more attractive than someone who has learned to become confident and comfortable in their own skin.
What's one item you can't leave home without? My iPhone. It's my go-to item that manages my calendar and finances, stores music that keeps me moving, and it keeps me connected to my loved ones.
What's your favorite food? While I love cooking and dining out, I don't have an ultimate favorite food...but if I had to pick something, French fries rarely let me down.
My greatest achievement has been: Graduating from Brandeis University and beginning my career in higher education. College students are great to work with as they keep me focused, motivated, and laughing. They challenge me every single day, quite frankly I would be disappointed if they didn't. They'd be surprised to know that they teach me new things too. Teaching has been more rewarding than I ever imagined. It's pretty cool to wake up each day excited to go to work.
What do you hope your next greatest achievement will be? My expertise and interests are in global studies and international sustainable development. I look forward to contributing to education reform, especially now that it's needed more than ever. Americans have so many opportunities to better themselves, and I personally feel responsible as a global citizen for improving our education system. There are millions of people outside of the United States who want the same opportunities we have, and I'll work every day for the rest of my life to make education attainable for all peoples.
Boxers or briefs? Boxer briefs.
If you won $1 million (tax free) and had to give half of it away, who would you give it to? I'd give half of it away to Vanderbilt Children's Hospital. I've been volunteering at Vanderbilt Children's Hospital for a few years now in the Hematology/Oncology Clinic. The doctors, nurses, child life specialists, and volunteers do amazing work for these patients on site and through summer camps. They're incredible people, but not nearly as incredible as the patients themselves. These kids are strong, inspirational people and I would be so lucky to have even just half of their strength and courage.