Community involvement and volunteerism have been a staple of my life since I was very young. It has given me the opportunity to interact with a variety of interesting people in my local community, in other states, and from other countries. Every Wednesday, after I finish my classes, I lead a Bible study for middle school and high school girls; then on Sunday nights, I work with our church youth group of 6th-12th grade boys and girls. Each week is a little different, but always filled with dynamic discussions and unique perspectives. Being able to work with these intelligent youth and provide guidance is an incredible experience. Building relationships and earning their trust is a beautiful blessing. I am so thankful to get to be part of the youth’s community as they grow up and figure out who they want to be.
During holiday breaks from my college studies, I have participated in the Wesley Foundation’s week-long work projects in a variety of communities in Texas (Pearland, Galveston, Atlanta, and Conroe). These work projects have included building ramps and fences, cleaning and clearing yards filled with debris, painting walls and fences, mucking and gutting homes affected by flooding, and finishing construction on houses that weren’t completed. Contributing manual labor to these communities is a very rewarding experience. The conversations and relationships created from these projects are special and often create long term friendships.
Every summer I travel to Summit County, Colorado where I have worked as a lifeguard at a local community recreation center (the Director of the Aquatic Center is an Aggie) and serve as a volunteer for Vacation Bible School (VBS) programs at two different churches. I love serving as a lifeguard and working to create a safe environment for the variety of people that come to have fun. Serving as group VBS leader involves overseeing activities for a group of kids in a specific age group, ranging from preschool to middle school. Being able to adjust and work with the needs of individual kids is what allows them to leave the camp feeling that they had a great time and are loved by their community.
I have had the opportunity to travel to many countries, including the England, France, Italy, Ireland, Canada, Peru, and Costa Rica. Earlier this month, I traveled to Nosara, Costa Rica to shadow a doctor for 10 days and to visit with my uncle who lives there. Being bilingual allowed me to observe and interact with the patients and doctor and feel that I was a part of this foreign community. It was interesting to see how culture can impact the diagnosis and treatment of patients; this perspective is something I plan to use when I become a physician.
I have had the opportunity to travel to many countries, including the England, France, Italy, Ireland, Canada, Peru, and Costa Rica. Earlier this month, I traveled to Nosara, Costa Rica to shadow a doctor for 10 days and to visit with my uncle who lives there. Being bilingual allowed me to observe and interact with the patients and doctor and feel that I was a part of this foreign community. It was interesting to see how culture can impact the diagnosis and treatment of patients; this perspective is something I plan to use when I become a physician.
I think one of the most valuable lessons I have gained from having an expansive community, from my neighborhood to overseas, is that everyone has a unique perspective and outlook, but they are all beautiful and valuable. Having discussions with people from different environments only expands how I can see and enjoy the world and how I can contribute to making it an even more beautiful place. I am so thankful for the opportunities I have had to interact with many different communities, from weekly discussions and hangouts to meeting people in foreign countries!
