PanamATE

I wish this trip didn’t end. When I first started high school, I wanted to be the best version of myself. I can’t say I was the best freshman. It was a chaotic year, but through that chaos, I discovered something important about myself: I loved leading people. I began my freshman year as vice president of the school anime club. While that may not seem significant, it was a huge milestone for me. Alongside a sophomore, we revived and rebuilt the club. That’s where my story began.

I joined more organizations than I initially wanted to, but I have no regrets. I was obsessed with being a people-pleaser and making my mother happy. She was a single mother, often independent, and always encouraged my brother and me to do well in school. Despite her challenges, she pushed us to excel academically. Now, as a rising senior, I’m involved in 15 organizations, holding leadership positions in five, including being president of one and student chair of two. I also have two recognitions, one from the state and one from my theater department.

Despite these accomplishments, I always felt it wasn’t enough. I wanted more from my leadership experiences. Then, I discovered Global Glimpse. Nominated by my Director of Equity and Inclusion, I’ll cut to the chase. This turned out to be one of the best experiences of my life. It was exactly what I needed—not just fun, but an affordable experience that broadened my perspective.

The idea of having no phone for two weeks or being away from my parents was daunting. However, everyone on the trip was in the same situation: no phone, no parents, and closest friends at home. This trip was incredibly valuable, teaching life lessons and providing a global perspective I couldn’t gain in the US. The struggles I witnessed were real, not just media portrayals.

I want every student to experience something like this, though I know it’s not possible for all. However, students should at least know that Global Glimpse exists. I made many friends, not just among fellow students, but with the leaders too. This experience was truly amazing, and I loved every moment of it. If your school offers this program, I highly encourage you to try it. Thank you, Global Glimpse, for this incredible opportunity, and thank you to my school for making it possible. I wish I could have stayed longer. Panama was amazing.