It's Official!

There is still over a month left before I leave for El Paso. However, with graduation and the school year wrapping up/becoming so busy and hectic, I know myself well enough to say (with confidence) that I would forget to create this blog if it didn't happen now. :) I wanted to create this so that it would be easier to share my adventures with friends, family, and those individuals who decide to creep. I promise to write in this everyday during the internship, and share at least one challenge, lesson learned, insight gained, or striking event that took place...or all of the above! I "officially" accepted my internship this afternoon. So currently, it does not feel like real life...I am just that stoked. I'm also very thankful to be presented with this opportunity and be surrounded with people who share the same passions and loves.

Someone asked what all I will be doing. My placement is at Iglesia Luterana Cristo Rey Parish, and I will be primarily working with the parish director (Rose Mary) and one other BSC coordinator (Justin) who is fluent in spanish. Justin and I have the goal to create and work towards a wonderful program for the children and their families. Here's just a rough outline of the responsibilities: planning, organizing, implementing academic tutoring, cultural enrichment, and recreational activities; leading community service projects for academic achievement; encourage academic success and involvement with children and families; communicate with families participating in the program and school officials on educational needs of the children; recruiting and training the volunteers. After talking with the wonderful Rose Mary, there is definitely way more involved...I just have no idea how to summarize it all. It will be far from easy, but it will sure be rewarding, and those who truly know me well enough know I'm definitely about that far-from-easy-but-very-rewarding-kind-of-life!

The living placements have not been communicated yet, but there will be a group of 4-6 (depending on a person's service site) of us living together throughout the internship. We will be given the opportunity to live a life of simplicity through service, and leadership through service. It sounds like I will be leaving May 28 or 29. It will be solidified more this coming week once I hear from Ryan (the BSC director). So let the countdown begin!

Love you all!

Jen