Why did you decide to enroll with Rustic Pathways in the Dominican Republic?
Tara: I went on Mountain Air last summer and I really felt like I made a difference.
This summer was my first summer traveling alone and I wanted to go to a place where I felt comfortable and that was the Dominican Republic.
After my twin sister did two summers of traveling the world with Rustic Pathways, I really wanted to get involved, not only to impact people, but to explore parts of the world I would normally not be able to.
I had such an amazing experience with Rustic my first year and I was so excited to be able to go back this summer. The Dominican Republic is a beautiful island but is filled with poverty and I wanted to be apart of helping the people.
Do you feel like you made a significant impact on the local community? Why or why not?
Tara: Specifically on my trip, we were building an aqueduct to give running water to the village of La Lomita. While digging trenches through the road, we were able to work alongside with locals, which was really inspiring.
Even though they didn't have that much, they were the happiest people I have met. They worked hard, they were very welcoming, and they always had a smile on their face.
I felt like I truly made a difference in their lives because they were all very thankful for what we were doing. I know that I will not be able to see the project finished but knowing that I was a part of it is a great feeling.
Tell me about one person you met.
Tara: On our second day of service we were fortunate enough to host the children of the village and spend a day playing games with them.
Although I am not the best at speaking Spanish, I felt that I was able to communicate well with one of the girls. Her name was Marielli (I am not 100% sure on the spelling).
She was a four year old girl whose sister was also in the camp and I will never forget her. I live in a place where children often get everything they want by asking and not really earning anything.
Marielli was a very quiet girl who was smaller and younger than most of the children, so I wanted to try and let her have fun too. We danced together and played tag and she showed me her home.
Although it was not much she was so happy and proud of everything that was hers and it made me realize that in life the things that will get you far are not the type of car you drive or how big your house is but it is the courage to be proud in what you have because you EARNED it.
I gave Marielli a water bottle that sprayed mist and I have never seen anyone so happy by the smallest thing. That is when I knew coming back to the Dominican Republic was worth it.
How has this experience impacted your future?
Tara: I will be going off to college in the fall at the University of Connecticut, which I am very excited about.
Prior to the trip, I never experienced real independence and I am so happy that I went on it because now I know that I will be okay on my own.
The people of La Lomita, the friends I have made on this trip, and the Rustic Pathways staff have been such a huge part in making the person I am today.
I now know the importance of hard work, the importance of helping others, and the importance of always appreciating what you have. In the future I look forward to becoming a traveler and not a tourist.