Presley Spiller

1. What inspired you to join VISIONS?

I attended the Dominican Republic (2021) and Peru (2022) with VISIONS as a high schooler. The deep friendships I formed, and the personal growth I witnessed within myself and others were inspirational. I want to give the experience to others that have shaped who I am today!

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

As mentioned before, I attended the Dominican Republic (2021) and Peru (2022) with VISIONS, which created the foundation for my passion for community service. I fell in love with the local communities as well as my VISIONS family. The consistent respect and passion from the community, across the age spectrum, inspired me to get to work and filled me with purpose.

3. What is your favorite achievement?

My favorite achievement as of now would be my Wilderness First Responder (WFR) certification! I love being in the outdoors, and being able to create safety in a boundless environment gives me the confidence to pursue more outdoor activities such as climbing, backpacking, and hiking.

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

The only time I have been outside of the country is with VISIONS! I would say my favorite place I have traveled to as of today is Peru. The unparalleled beauty of the mountains and rivers in the Sacred Valley is unforgettable.

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

I serendipitously had my palm read by my friend at the time, Yuktha. She told me that my life could not be mine unless I lived it for myself. This struck me like a ton of bricks because she is completely right! This pushed me to work towards achieving my dreams and to expand my comfort zone.

6. What do you hope to accomplish this summer?

This summer, I hope to strengthen my individuality through leadership and learning from my co-leaders (since I will be a junior leader). Additionally, I hope to strengthen my Spanish speaking skills, which I am currently studying in college!

7. What are you most excited about this summer?

I am very excited about forming meaningful relationships with my co-leaders as I feel they have a lot to teach me through their own experiences. As a participant with VISIONS, I always looked up to the leaders as they shared stories from their own experiences through life, and what led them to work with VISIONS. Needless to say, I also look forward to meeting and getting to know all of the participants!

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?

I would tell someone on their first VISIONS experience to seize every opportunity to learn something about yourself, others, or the place you are in. Take advantage of everything the program has to offer such as the natural beauty, the language, and the people.