2013 | Jerseys From Jersey | Ridgewood, NJ | Ridgewood High School
While experiencing the cities of Africa, the Masai Mara, the wildlife, the Maasai people, and Zanzibar was unbelievable, it was the gratitude, the positive attitude and the cheerfulness of the children of St. Vincent’s orphanage that touched me to my core. Seeing how thankful and appreciative the children were for the soccer jerseys and cleats – things I had always taken for granted – was very moving. While a part of me felt like I had made a difference in some of these children’s lives, it was actually these children that made a huge difference in my life.
After my visit to Kenya and Tanzania, I now understand how easy it is to make a difference in someone’s life through small acts of kindness. My ARCC adventure has inspired me to look for other ways to contribute to society on a larger scale. I am currently in the process of applying for a community service based fellowship which will give me the foundation and knowledge I need to learn how to impact the world. This African adventure changed my entire perspective of myself and what I would like to accomplish in my life.
My advice for anyone traveling with ARCC would be to keep an open mind and an open heart. Be prepared to see things that you have never seen before. Be ready to accept the adventure presented to you. It will be a life altering experience – all the more so, if, as you prepare for your journey, you use it as an opportunity to make a difference.