A family portrait. (Left to Right): Eric Lofquist, Kiko, Montinique Lynch

I started my current job in June. I started Challenge in September. A month later, Montinique Lynch and I moved in together at an apartment in a neighborhood some consider Boston-Edison, some consider Old North End, and some consider it Gateway. The story goes like this:

Last summer, when I knew I was going to become a Challenge Fellow, a buddy of mine and I were looking for places to stay. One day, I saw Monti posting homes on Facebook (I was friends with her from after the interview trip), and reached out. As she might tell you, I was just this random kid who kept bugging her on Facebook messenger. We connected with Monti and started looking at beautiful and massive houses – sometimes up to six people – and for people to fill them with us. We found a house in Sherwood Forrest, a few in Boston-Edison, and one in Southwest. Ultimately, my friend and her friends fell through, and the houses were rented out to others. A few months later, when Challenge had already started, we finally found our current place. Without even really knowing each other, Monti and I moved in together. It was a leap of faith, but it was the best decision that I’ve made this year.

Hollywood in Detroit Night

Monti and I are exact opposites. She’s fierce and composed, I’m relaxed and sometimes a little disheveled. We talk and listen to each other about our lives, our experiences, Challenge, work, and everything in between. We throw parties, enjoy spending time with each other and our friends, and go on impromptu trips (usually for food). We support each other, encourage each other, and affirm each other. Living with Monti has been rewarding, greatly enhanced my Challenge Detroit experience, and built a lifelong friendship.