“The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.” ~ Mahatma Gandhi
A few weeks ago when my longtime friend Rony Delva asked me if I’d come out and speak at Fairfield University’s Upward Bound Career Day, I did not hesitate to say yes. The Fairfield University Upward Bound Program provides low income, potential first-generation college students with the tools necessary to access postsecondary education as full participants.
It was a great way to spend a Saturday morning, speaking to these high school students and giving them words of encouragement as they prepared to move onto the next chapter of their lives. The panel consisted of professionals from various fields, including marketing, healthcare and employment. We each got up and spoke to the students about our journey and what led us to the career paths we ultimately chose. My goal was to ultimately share my story, my struggles and assure them that life is not a bed of roses and despite trials and tribulations, with determination and hard work, anything was possible for them. They just had to work hard.
Just looking at their faces, it made me think back to when I was in their shoes and unsure about the direction I was headed in. I’m soo grateful for the people I’ve met on my journey and who’ve helped me along the way and ultimately, I hope that by sharing my story, I provided them with enough courage to chase their dreams. If I made a difference in one student’s life, then it was all well worth it!
this was a great post! XO