When I was in the eighth grade, it was difficult for me to
participate in school. I wasn’t confident and had extremely low self esteem. I wasn’t
blessed with a solid group of friends, and was uncertain and self- conscious
about my body. I was stuck. I couldn’t find anything that lit that internal
fire in my heart; I didn’t have a overwhelming passion for anything.
I went on like this, lost and confused, for a few months. My
life was changed, however, when I heard about the local, non profit
organization, Children’s Global Alliance. I researched the group and realized
that this organization took students to developing countries where they experienced
volunteering in schools and orphanages. I was incredibly intrigued, so I
applied, interviewed, and wrote as to why I was a responsible, authentic, and
bright candidate. Amazingly, I got in!
From that moment on, I felt my life change right before my eyes.
I was driven to do better in all areas of my life. I became a leader at my
school and in my family and I found a passion- volunteering.
That summer, I travelled to Nicaragua to volunteer in a
school for individuals with disabilities. It was the best thirteen days of my
life. I was empowered. I learned an impeccable amount about how disabilities
are treated in developing countries, along with how beautiful disabled
individuals are. In fact, I continue to work with the special education program
at my high school. Needless to say, my life was changed.
I went into my freshman year of high school with confidence
and an understanding of my values. I applied to go to Cambodia with CGA and not
only did I get accepted, but was also granted the position of a student mentor.
This implied that I would be guiding other volunteers as we experienced the
adversity of working in an orphanage in the slums of Cambodia. It was truly an
honor.
As I continued my high school career, I began to struggle
with my mental health stability. My grades began to drop and I lost touch with
myself. Once again, I was stuck. Only being fourteen, I minimalized my pain and
didn’t seek help. That June, I travelled to Cambodia.
Cambodia was incredible, I had many unforgettable moments, but
it wasn’t as breathtaking as Nicaragua. But why was this?
It was taken much self reflection and patience, but I think
that its safe to say that I wasn’t healthy enough to volunteer in a foreign
country for three weeks. I couldn’t act with selflessness and passion, for I
was struggling immensely. I suffered in Cambodia, unable to experience the trip
for everything that it was.
Since Cambodia, I have been through quite a lot. I have
overcome many obstacles and have learned a lot about how to maintain positivity
in times of adversity. Everyday, I recover from my mental and emotional
disabilities with the help of both doctors and my family. I have learned that
it is important to remember your health in all situations, as well as advocate
for yourself when you are suffering. You will be uncomfortable and nervous in
life, and it is crucial to hold on to your values and look to the future when
in such predicaments.
It is with honor that I share that I am in a much better
state that I was when travelling to Cambodia. I will be going to Tanzania,
ready to invest myself completely, guiding the students and empowering myself.
I am thrilled to be volunteering with Children’s Global
Alliance and know that my sister and I will be in supportive, loving hands throughout
our trip.
