1. What inspired you to join VISIONS?

I’m always seeking meaningful opportunities to engage with other cultures and explore new places. Service-oriented programs fulfill an important role in modern society, and I’ve been lucky enough to participate in similar programs in the past. I was inspired to join VISIONS after researching the organization’s history and realizing that its goals align closely with my own—as both an educator and an explorer.

2. What experiences have shaped your passion for community service and youth development?

As a teacher, I have the opportunity to support youth development and encourage community involvement among my students. Over the past few years, I’ve co-sponsored a school event celebrating Mother Language Day, where we’ve been able to highlight the linguistic diversity of our district. I also incentivize students to attend extracurricular activities and meetings so they can connect with peers who share their interests.

3. What is your favorite achievement?

In the summer of 2024, I had the opportunity to participate in a Fulbright-Hays Group Project Abroad for curriculum development in Tanzania. While there, I taught in Dar es Salaam and collaborated with local educators on curriculum mapping. It was challenging but incredibly rewarding. I met amazing people and learned so much about Tanzania, East Africa, and the emergence of Swahili as a potential lingua franca for the continent.

4. What is your favorite place you’ve traveled?

In the summer of 2023, I visited the beautiful city of Krakow, Poland. Walking through St. Mary’s Basilica in the main square was a remarkable experience. The architecture and the people were unforgettable!

5. What is the best advice you’ve received?

It might sound cliché, but Suzy Kassem’s quote—“Doubt kills more dreams than failure ever will”—has always resonated with me. Overthinking can be paralyzing, and I’ve actively worked to destigmatize the experience of failure for both myself and my students. When we fail, that feeling can be used productively and can guide future decisions in a positive way—if we’re mature enough to let it.

6. What do you hope to accomplish this summer?

I hope to learn about the Quechua people and their culture in a meaningful way. I want to create opportunities for trip participants to feel immersed and engaged in ways that are valuable to them. I also hope to expand my agricultural knowledge and bring what I learn back to the United States!

7. What are you most excited about this summer?

I’m most excited to meet the trip participants and begin working with the Quechua community!

8. If you had to give one piece of advice or words of encouragement to someone on their first VISIONS experience, what would it be?

My words of encouragement to a new VISIONS participant would be something like: “This is an incredible opportunity to learn about a different culture—and about yourself. It’s a chance for all of us to connect with something real and meaningful. Get ready to meet some amazing people and add a memorable chapter to your own story!”