In 2009 I took part in a Humanitarian trip to the Dominican Republic. This was a life-changing experience for me and I hope to do something like it again one day. We are so lucky in Canada with the protections and care we have. While I know that not everything is perfect here, and that many struggle, and I am in no way trying to diminish the feelings of those struggling to live in Canada, it was hard to see such different circumstances in the Dominican Republic. There were children who could not go to school as they had to find ways to help their families make money. There were children who did not have families to help them and were trying to make a living on their own. This experience opened my heart to those struggling. I will always try to help those who need it and I hope to inspire my students to have the empathy to do so as well.
During my Bachelor of Arts I was lucky enough to have a chance to Study Abroad. I spent nine months in France taking language intensive courses as well as courses with other French university students. One of my courses also let me spend some volunteer time observing in an elementary school. I feel very lucky to have been able to see so many aspects of another country’s schooling system. This time abroad was a big year in terms of personal growth as well. I gained so much independence and it inspired my global minded thinking and motivations. I will take this experience and knowledge with my forever and have it inspire me to always be thinking critically of our school system and ways of doing things. I know that there are so many cultures that see things differently from stuff and I hope to continue to learn about and let their ways inspire me.
During my life I have had the privilege to visit seven of our thirteen provinces/territories in Canada. As a Canadian I think it is important that I know our country. We are a vast landmass with many ever-changing ways of life across the country. I think to have a global minded attitude not only do you have to know what there is in other countries but also you need to have an idea of the circumstances and ideas in your own country. Even though I am adamant that I will see all of our provinces and territories one day, I know that there will always be more to learn and see so I will never stop learning about and exploring our country.
