International Studies Major,
From Diamond Bar, CA
I wanted to participate in a community service program that was out of my comfort zone and would bring new experiences. The Costa Rica Program really intrigued me because I had taken an AP Environmental Science class in high school, where I had to complete a project that would make an impact toward creating a greener community. I had a lot of fun doing such a hands-on project, and when I saw the Costa Rica Program application, I was eager to do another hands-on project that would make a difference. I’m most excited to experience being in an environment where everything I use gets re-used. The composting toilet also excites me, even though it sounds gross because I’ve never even seen one, let alone used one!
I currently live in Mesa Court, in a magical hall called Sierra, where I am both a Sierra Programmer and a resident in the living-learning community. I am also in a sorority called Alpha Chi Omega, where I serve on the executive board as the Vice President of Chapter Relations and Standards.
I would say my biggest cultural immersion experience to date was when I traveled to Eastern Europe two summers ago. It was my first time going to a country where I did not know the language or customs of the area. I stayed there for about two weeks and got to experience the cuisine and culture of the people there.