RuthAnn Dave/Mary Murphy

Lifestyles Editor/Managing Editor

rud24@psu.edu

Gaby Reyes is a Behrend senior student who goes by they/them pronouns. Reyes, a communication major with a double minor in sociology and women’s studies, is not only a Behrend student, they are also a self-made entrepreneur. They are 22 years old and have been running their clothing company, Melancholy, for almost four years. The Behrend Beacon’s own managing editor Mary Murphy sat down with Reyes for an exclusive interview. 

Q: What was the inspiration behind Melancholy clothing?

A: “When I was 17, I had thyroid cancer and as a result of my experience I no longer have a thyroid. The thyroid is a gland that controls things like your metabolism and also things like your mental health. So I turned 18 and started Melancholy as a way to advocate for people who don’t necessarily feel like they have that support to say I need help.”

Q: How hard was it to start your own brand?
A: “It was only difficult in the beginning to get the idea off the ground. But after that it has been nothing but a good time. I’ve had so much fun having Melancholy and being able to hear people’s stories and meeting new faces.”

Q: Did you have people who didn’t support you?

A: “I don’t recall there being any people who explicitly made it known that they didn’t support me.”

Q: On your website it says you are a cancer survivor, how has that affected your view on life and on your brand?
A: “My view on life has changed dramatically but I think it’s for the better. I now understand that this life has its end, that it’s better to appreciate what you have and exude as much gratitude to life than to be bitter or angry. I put a lot of my personal feelings and life into the designs of Melancholy and I feel like it’s therapeutic for me to be able to heal in a way by sharing my experiences and make art of it.”

Q: What do you want to do after college?

A: “I’m not too sure yet what I’d like to do after college. I ponder if I want to pursue a Master’s Degree and maybe become a professor. But I really want to do something that I’ll love.”

Q: Who is your biggest inspiration?
A: “My biggest inspiration is my mother. My mother is such an amazing woman and I am so grateful for her and everything she has done for me. Her story is what gives me the inspiration to keep on trying to achieve my goals.”

Q: What is something you wish you could change about your past?
A: “It’s hard for me to say that I would want to change something about my past because if it weren’t for my experiences, I wouldn’t be who I am today. Maybe I wouldn’t have Melancholy. I love who I am and while life isn’t easy I wouldn’t change a thing.”

Q: And what is a piece of advice you wish you could give to your younger self?
A: “To my younger self- you will go through some things that truly no one deserves but the pain will turn into love and you will see that this life is beautiful. When things get tough remember to hold on because tomorrow is a new day and something greater is waiting for you.”