Teammate Spotlight: Elizabeth N. Talbot

Resides In: Baton Rouge, LA

Before NET: Graduated from Louisiana Tech University (heck yea, Tech yea) with a degree in Chemical Engineering.

First Encounter: We were in the same laundry group, meaning we drove in the same van to and from Camp Wapo, and go to the same laundromat during our two weeks at Camp. Beforehand, we did a laundry group competition, and her and I worked together in a "Pin the tail on the donkey" type game, which we won!

Initial Thoughts: She kind of lets things come to her, very comfortable with how things are and just lets them be. Very laid back and chill.

(Left) I'm not exactly sure what's going on in this photo, aside from knowing I photobombed whatever Elizabeth was doing. This picture is a straight vibe, though, and it was taken on the last week of the road. I want to point out her iconic denim jacket she is wearing around her waist. That was her style; she wore it all the time, and would often match with Sally's denim jacket. Something else to note: her backpack. That thing never left her side since she carried all of the team's financials in that bag, and she guarded it with her life, which was greatly appreciated. (Right) The Talbot Family! We stayed at their house five separate times, and spent a combined three weeks with them (at least). They became family to us, and we love them to death. The parents, Eric and Tracie, are at the top, while Elizabeth stands with her three younger siblings (from L to R): Sarah, Mary Grace, and Jeffery.

Favorite Memory: Writing a drama for NET! Dramas are serious skits that we use on retreat to send a unique message to the youth, and NET is always looking for new, creative dramas to use. Elizabeth wanted to write a drama using Mother Theresa's meditation, I Thirst, while I had a very unique drama plot in my head. After months of hard work, we combined our two ideas to create a drama that will be hopefully be used on retreats this upcoming year! This was a massive bonding experience for us, and we worked together so well, bouncing ideas off each other to make the best work possible.

Something Elizabeth Taught Me: Ballet. Well, she taught the whole team ballet in December, but she used ballet to really open up about herself. She did ballet growing up, and even played the main in her local Nutcracker. Yet at the beginning of the year, she was shy about sharing her gift. She grew quickly in vulnerability over time, and by the end of the first half she was fully comfortable with teaching us the basics. So in all, it was a growing experience for all of us! It was also a massive stepping stone for Elizabeth to dive deeper with the team, which was beautiful to watch.

What the World Should Know: Sirach 6:14 says, "a faithful friend is a sturdy shelter", and Elizabeth is indeed that sturdy shelter. She was a rock for all of us this year; when everyone was full of energy and chaos, her cool and collected spirit kept us grounded, which was so necessary. She also played the best bops in the van, always setting the tone when she was in the passenger seat, and you can always lean on her for love and support. Don't be mistaken, though, she is always down for a great time, and has (in my opinion) one of the best chuckles out there.

What’s next?: To be determined. She is searching for a job currently in her Chemical Engineering field, but will likely settle in Baton Rouge for a while, host NET Teams, and dive into the strong Catholic community down in the Bayou.

To Elizabeth:

You are incredible! Thank you for always vibing with us this year, for growing in discomfort, always seeking for more, and for diving into our relationship all year long. You are an absolute gift to this world, and I am so grateful and honored to call you my friend. I'm excited to continue growing with you, may God continue to bless you and your family. Love you sista!