"If the water of a pond remains still, it becomes stagnant, muddy, and fetid; it only remains clear if it moves and runs. The same is true of the man who travels." Todorov

I could talk about how much I love travel and learning other languages and cultures forever. I could spend a great deal of time looking at photos of places I hope to go and places where I have been. However, besides wanting to spend the rest of my life exploring the rest of our beautiful world and my own backyard, I wholeheartedly believe I was meant to serve others, as we all should.

I have sat on my couch a lot and wasted a lot of my gifts, talents, and knowledge, but in reality, there is so little time left in life, especially in regards to the "college experience". I want to make my days mean something, and not for my benefit, for other people. Sure, I'll get "experience" and "admiration", but everything I hope to gain will come naturally. What I get in return is not as important as what I could devote my time and energy into; not a resume, but something sustainable and continuous. My life can change solely by changing the lives of others and that's all I could really hope for.

Since I have devoted almost 4 years to studying Spanish and Biology, I have decided that I was called to go on this trip in order to put my education and training to use. I also plan to use photography in hopes that it will tell an honest story and show others what a gift it is to give. I will also be sharing this experience with other students who have the same passion and determination.

I think that the world won't change unless we change ourselves. The purpose of this trip is not to give out handouts, but to create a sustainable environment for people to live and thrive. After the trip, I hope that the experience, knowledge, and photos I bring back will inspire others to take a risk and sacrifice themselves for others regularly in their walk through life.

Please don't hesitate to ask me how you can help.
I am kindly asking for financial contribution and of course, prayers for safety and endurance.