This interview has been edited for length and clarity.

Lorrayne Brito Assisi has always been interested in helping people, especially kids. This has led her to her first full-time job at a school: working in the ExCel program, where students are given extra support. Before this, she interned at a public elementary school in Cambridge, Massachusetts, working with younger kids, while getting her master’s degree in social work. In her free time, she enjoys crafting with her friends.

How are you liking the high school?

I really like it. I started last February at the end of the school year, so it was a nice introduction. Then I had summer off and came back with a baseline of what to expect. But it’s a great community full of really awesome people. Students and staff are very welcoming.

What does your job entail?

I’m a social worker within the ExCel program, which is a therapeutic program. We have a small group of students here who get some support. I am their home, their base for any support that they may need throughout the day. A big part of my job is one-on-one sessions but also supporting [students] out in the community as well as within the classroom.

How did you get into social work?

I was always really into psychiatry, so I started studying—my undergrad was psychology—until I discovered social work and how much I could do with it. I started my career in hospitals and crisis management. Then I wanted to slow down a little bit to be with and get to know more of my students. In the hospital with patients, that’s harder to do because I’m only seeing them once.

What is one of your favorite things about the high school?

If I ever need anything, I have a great support system within our ExCel program, but also within the school in general. There are many people out there who are willing to help and support when needed.

How would you compare working here to working at the school in Cambridge?

I love it so far here at Brookline High School; it is very community-based, welcoming to everyone, and that’s really nice. The big difference is when I was in elementary [school], they’re the little ones. Here, it’s a lot cooler because you guys are growing, you’re becoming adults, and it’s a nice experience to have light conversations and have a space where there’s so much we can talk about and explore.

What three things would you bring on a deserted island?

Chapstick, definitely water and a hair tie. I hate going without it; I can’t stand it because I have long hair. When I’m in the heat, I always have to have my hair up.

What is a place that you would like to visit?

I would love to see Greece. I’m getting married this April, so I hope that will be our honeymoon if it all works out.