Willa Drew: What should I call you? Do you prefer a nickname?
Valencia Calderon: Valencia is fine. 
 
WD: Great. Welcome and thanks for agreeing to talk to us today. 
V: Gracias. I’m honored to be here. 

WD: Can I get you something to drink? Water? Soda? Coffee? Wine? Whiskey?
V: Sweet iced tea, please and thank you.
 
WD: Excellent choice. Tell me a little about yourself.
V: I’m just an average Latina trying to complete college for my parents.
 
WD: Oh, I’m sure there’s more. Where do you live?
V: My hometown of Corpus Christi, Texas… you might know it for being the hometown of a famous
Broadway and TV star. As well as the home of the Queen of Tejano. It’s a nice city, but big enough to have things to do, but small enough to know someone who knows someone.
 
WD: Sounds like a nice place to live. Do you have any jobs or hobbies?
V: If you count being part of a psychology study, a job, then yes. If not, then I’m just a college student who reads sometimes and enjoys watching TV shows.
 
WD: Psychology study??? Can you tell us more?
V: It focuses on memories. Besides that I can’t tell you more. Hopefully someday I can. There’s things that even Xavier can’t tell me. As much as he wants to.
 
WD: So interesting. What are some of your likes and dislikes?
V: I’ve enjoyed recently visiting Rising Comics and More. It’s such a fantastic local shop. We love supporting local in Corpus Christi. I dislike not being able to know what’s going on. I usually want to keep finding out what I don’t know.
 
WD: You and me both! What is your greatest fear?
V: I’ve already lost my parents. While I miss them, I’m still afraid of death.
 
WD: Fair enough. If you could change one thing about your life, what would it be?
V: I would have a time machine to go back and save my parents.
 
WD: Let’s try something juicier. Are you in love?
V: Don’t tell, Xavier. He doesn’t need an ego boost.
 
WD: My lips are sealed. Do you have an archnemesis?
V: I hope not. Although there have been some strange things happening lately.
 
WD: Okay, some rapid fire questions. Do you have a secret?
V: I’m an open book, but I probably shouldn’t be.
 
WD: Sounds like there’s a story there. Do you like to cook?
V: Sometimes. I mostly enjoy cooking for someone.
 
WD: Do you like Girl Scout cookies?
V: I used to sell Girl Scout cookies! I enjoy buying them when I can to support fellow Girl Scouts, plus the lemon cookies are good with tea. I only found out because Xavier loves tea. He also found that comic book shop too.
 
WD: Are you happy we know your story?
V: I’m thankful for the voice to tell my story. Not everyone has that chance.
 
WD: Very true. Is there anything you want to say to your fans?
V: You mean Xavier. I’m sure he’s my only fan. He’s probably excited now that I’ve mentioned him. He’s such a nerd, but it’s my type.
 
WD: I like the sound of Xavier. Can we look forward to reading more of your story?
V: Yes, there’s still more left to be revealed. It’s like a three season TV show.
 
WD: I love this idea. Oh, look at the time. I’ve kept you too long. Thank you Valencia for talking to us today.
V: I’m truly thankful to be interviewed. I’ve heard you all enjoy music. So do I. I’m looking forward to the Battle of the Bands contest on campus soon. I’m sure there will be some good performances. Besides that, I want to make sure Xavier and I have a good time in college while we get through this study. I’m sure there’s more than what we know about.
 
WD: I do love music! And a good Battle of the Bands. Maybe I'll tag along and meet Xavier. Let’s go.
 
If you’d like to read Valencia's story and find out more about her journey check out cool pics etc. on Christina Vourcos’ Instagram and Goodreads page.