Why did you pick this program?
I chose ISV because a representive walked into my math class and talked about the program. In that moment I knew this is what I wanted to do and she signed up. This opportunity came at a time where I needed to change something in my life and this was the perfect opportunity.
What do you tell your friends who are thinking about going abroad?
I strongly encourage them. I'm so grateful I made a desicion and I never looked back. I never questioned it and because I went abroad I got to experience so many things that most people never get to in their lifetime.
What is one piece of advice you'd give to someone going on your program?
Start saving now! It is so incredibly expensive but definitely worth.
Also, talk to the people. The more questions you ask the more you learn and you become part of the culture.
What's your favorite story to tell about your time abroad?
It's so hard to pick your favorite story or memory. But I loved spending time with the children! Our last day on project we went to the preschool right next to the soup kitchen we were building. And there was this little girl who just stood there. All the little kids were playing and the volunteers were all busy with the kids. So I sat down and the little girl stood. I grabbed her hand and made her sit with me.
I tried talking to her, but she wouldn't answer. Then it was time to go. And she said bye. In that moment I knew I did something good.
Yeah, I built a soup kitchen for children. I went to Africa and met many wonderful people. But this child I let her know she was loved. We showed the children that they are important and worth it. And that was the orginal reason why I went in the first place.
Why?
I was going through a rough time in my life. My senior year of high school I was bullied and no one knew I was the victim. Then my boss turned me into the cops when something bad happened at work when I wasn't even there.
This same year I got super sick and couldn't eat or drink without any pain. I ended up getting surgery, but I was so depressed. Everything in my life went wrong.
I started my first year of college and decided this was my chance to change my life. No one knows me this is a fresh start. And then I heard about ISV.
I went through so much pain yet I came out okay. And I wanted to teach that to little African children. I wanted them to know that no matter how hard life is it is worth it and it is loved.