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Name: Charlie Hildebrand

Age: 19

Hometown: Neenah, WI

School attending: University of Wisconsin-Madison, 2023

Tell us about your background: Born in raised in Neenah, I am the youngest of two children. Throughout my childhood, I was lucky enough to travel across the country and to different countries. Because of this, I have always had a deep love for traveling the world. From a young age, I have always had a driving desire to escape my everyday life and immerse myself in other cultures. I have journeyed to countless different landscapes, from the mountains of Switzerland to the savannas of Tanzania. Experiencing different cultures fueled my interest in architecture and real estate. Don’t be surprised if you catch me looking at houses on Zillow! As a rising sophomore at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, I am a double major in communications and journalism as well as a writer for The Daily Cardinal.  

Why did you want to be an intern at FCM? I have always taken an interest in the Fox Cities. Despite the deep desire to live elsewhere while I was growing up, I have recently come to appreciate the wonderful place where I was raised. When coming across the opportunity to write for Fox Cities Magazine, I knew that it would be a perfect fit for my interest in journalism and that it could help me grow substantially as a writer.

What’s your favorite thing about the Fox Cities? To this day I am still enthralled by the variety of landscapes throughout the Fox Cities. We have the ability to enjoy so many different bodies of water. Driving only a few miles outside the cities will bring you to rolling hills in the countryside. 

The last book you read: Just last week I enjoyed reading “Life After Life” by Kate Atkinson. It explores a girl living through both of the World Wars who’s given many chances at life after dying and being reborn again.   

Last movie you watched: Suspiria (1977). Although I usually don’t enjoy watching horror movies, this classic was surprisingly captivating. The ornate set designs and bright neon colors helped to balance out the gory scenes.  

Favorite podcasts: My cousin and his boyfriend created a podcast called Our Americana. After buying a camper van, they left Brooklyn to travel throughout the U.S. and parts of Canada, documenting the various cultures and lifestyles they experienced. 

Any hidden talents? I used to have a running clock in my head. I’d be able to tell the time without looking at a clock, although I’ve been very inaccurate lately. 

What can’t you live without? I couldn’t go long at all without my listening to Spotify. I need my daily dose of Chaka Khan and Diana Ross!

What’s the biggest risk you ever took? When I was in France, I reluctantly partook in a day of canyoning with my friends. Although it was an experience that I don’t regret, it certainly didn’t go well with my fear of heights.  

What’s the best advice you’ve ever received? My mom once told me that you won’t get anywhere in life if you let other people’s opinions of you consume your thoughts. This has sat with me ever since. 

Describe your perfect Saturday: No summer weekend would be complete without going for my morning run. Later in the day, I’d take a drive through the country with my windows down while listening to Fleetwood Mac. I’d spend the afternoon outside in my hammock and then meet my friends at SAP for dinner. 

Follow Charlie on Instagram @charlie.hildebrand and stay tuned for his upcoming blog series!