More than half way through my year as an international Officer, I can’t help but stop and think how lucky I am to be in this position. I’ve gotten the chance to meet so many amazing people and to explore new avenues for myself as a Scholar and a Leader. Last year this time it didn’t really seem possible, but as I work with my team to create a scholarship for students that will aid in college completion and help mentor students in my own country I’m very proud of what I have been able to accomplish this year and excited for what lies ahead. My first semester as an Officer, albeit the most challenging, was well worth the struggle and has made for a brilliant lesson. Like many of my fellow Phi Theta Kappans know, the most challenging experiences forge the greatest skills and opportunities for growth.
As an “International” International Officer I’ve found that many of my experiences, ideas, and opinions have evolved. It has sometimes been a challenge for me to express this even though the environment encourages it. Traveling to the various regions and meeting the varying group of students always opens me to the diversity that exists within the organization and in the United States.
I think that the greatest thing that I have been given this year is a network of students who understand how hard and important it is to devote your life to education and work in Community Colleges. Many of the happy moments that I have had this year have come through my involvement in Community College and through my work with Phi Theta Kappa. When I think about how I have grown and developed over the last few months it is humbling to think that it all stemmed from my decision to not transfer from my Community College. As the year comes to a close, and with Christmas only 2 days away, I can’t imagine a single gift that is better than what I’ve already gained. When I think about all the memories I had in Phi Theta Kappa, I think about Annual Convention, Leadership Conferences, Honors Institute and the ISLP Program that my involvement in PTK made possible.
With only 7 days until the New Year, I have no idea how the following year can be better than this, but I’ve learned through hard work and dedication anything is possible. My biggest dreams are all centered on my education. This is why I am so proud and so honored to be a donor, contributor and an International Officer responsible for creation of the Oberndorf Lifeline to Completion Scholarship. It is truly inspiring to know that what my team and I and I have done so far will be a catalyst for helping someone complete his or her degree.
Completion to me has moved from a vague idea to the focus of my next year and well after. I never understood what it would do for me to believe in an idea that was focused outside of my island and my home. The C4 initiative is something that I’ll always appreciate. Committing to complete my Associate Degree has been the most momentous promise I have ever made to myself and glad I can help others in this goal.
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