Study Abroad in Rome, Italy

Anyone who knows me knows that I absolutely loved the month I spent in Italy. The food was fabulous, the weather was incredible, the sights were unbelievable, and, most importantly, the people encouraged my passion for all things Italian. I couldn't have asked for a better first transoceanic experience. I was excited about Italy, Italian culture and the Italian language and the Italians were excited by my obvious interest. I cannot wait to go back to Italy as well as to experience new places.
    
   

Peer Tutoring - Texas Christian University, Dept. of Modern Languages

Throughout my school career, I have continuously been invigorated by and excited about languages. When one of my language mentors (professors) asked me if I would consider becoming a peer tutor, I excitedly blurted out that I loved tutoring and would do it at no cost if I had that ability! She laughed and assured me that I would be paid for my services, but I certainly didn't sign on for the money. I have loved languages since I was 12 years old and relish every opportunity I have to share my passion with others. Tutoring provides an excellent opportunity for me to do so, and continuing to tutor semester after semester has only helped me tutor more students in a more efficient manner. Tutoring is one of two things I will instantly miss the day after I graduate.
   
   

People to People Future Leaders of America - New York, New York

Before I had the good fortune to travel to Rome, Italy, I traveled from Dallas, Texas to New York, New York. The two weeks I spent there were significant in many ways. It was my first extended absence from the presence of my parents, and it was my first educational overnight trip. It was in New York that I discovered my own resourcefulness and strength in unfamiliar settings. Not only did I make it through my program at Columbia, I led a fellow group of students in our final project of the program. In addition to exercising these valuable skills, I also developed a love for travel and exploration of new areas.
  
  

Alpha Phi Omega

Alpha Phi Omega is a nation-wide co-ed service fraternity that operates on more than 350 college campuses. Not only did I make friends as many people do at strictly social fraternities, but I also had the opportunity to have a lasting and beneficial impact on the surrounding community throughout my time in college. I uncovered the importance of donating basics like effort and time to people who need them and I saw the multiplicity of ways in which the community can grow. A community is only as strong as the people who constitute it.