John Ambrose is a chemical health intern at Vinland’s residential facility in Loretto. He is a Community Counseling major, with a focus in Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counseling (LADC), at Winona State University. He will graduate in spring of 2016.
Why are you interested in your field of study?
I enjoy seeing people get better. People getting into counseling are interested in helping people, but it’s important to know you can’t do that – you can only help people see how they can help themselves.
Why were you interested in an internship at Vinland?
I went to an internship fair in January and I was intrigued by the holistic plan at Vinland. There isn’t just a focus on substance abuse but they also create an optimal environment with the spiritual, nutrition, and exercise aspects. I’m interested in the whole body approach, especially with people who have more than a substance abuse issue, such as those with a traumatic brain injury (TBI) or mental health diagnoses, since you can then treat them from multiple angles.
What are your goals after graduation?
Get a job someplace with an interesting population and where I feel I can help out, but that also is challenging and where I will learn.
What do you like to do in your spare time?
I’m a runner – I’m training for the Twin Cities Urban Trail Marathon (it will be my second marathon).
What’s your favorite place you’ve ever been?
I have three. The Grand Canyon because you can witness the majesty. Sequoia National Park because it is hard to put your mind around how something that grows so slow can grow so big – it puts existence as a human into perspective. Also, oceans in general.
If you could meet anyone in the world, who would you meet?
David Lynch – I’m a big fan of his movies, and because he meditates.
What is your spirit animal?
A rabbit because I’m really busy but I enjoy “bouncing around.”
What is your favorite book, movie, and/or TV show?
“Dancing With Cats” is my favorite book – it’s a picture book of people dancing with cats. Lost Highway is my favorite movie. And Bachelorette is my favorite show, this season at least.
What song best describes your life?
“Livin in America” by James Brown
