Museum Display

GRANDMA & GRANDPA            

My grandma was a big inspiration in my life and because of her I knew that my education and career were highly important. She was a teacher at various schools in my hometown. She was very smart and dedicated to her work, and this is why I knew I had to do well and succeed in my schooling career. My grandpa is another important aspect to my life. He has helped support me financially through out my four years here at Eastern. He has given me more than I have ever expected and without him I really do not know what I would do. Education is of big importance to my family and this is drastically shown through the support of each one of my family members. My grandma and grandpa mean so much to me and for how much they have contributed for my sister, my cousins and I, there would never be a way to repay. They have shaped who I am and it is hard to say if I would have made it through all four years of college without their encouragement and gracious help.

DAD

           

I would like to discuss my dad’s situation because it is so unique. My dad was adopted at birth and does not know his biological mother or father even after trying to find them. This has always been extremely fascinating to me because I do not know half of where I came from. I will never know my heritage or background, which especially demonstrates how it affects my cultural identity. This is something my dad has been struggling with his whole life, but knows that he would never give up his mom and dad for anything. But he has always wanted to know where he comes from and what type of culture he is from including, religion, location and family history. It is interesting to think that my life, especially my dad’s life, would be incredibly different today if he were never adopted. He is such a big supporter of mine and would do anything for my family that it is sad to know he will never be at a peace of mind not knowing where he comes from or who he belongs to.

ALPHA PHI EXECUTIVE OFFICE

When first coming to Eastern I was hesitant about joining a sorority. I never knew I would learn and grow so much in four years than I have with this organization. Being in a sorority has taught me so much that I could not imagine being anywhere else than here for my four years of college. I would have never expected to join the executive office for Alpha Phi because that was something out of my comfort zone when first coming to college. My junior year I decided to join this team and I have to say it was the best decision I could have made while being here. It taught me so much about myself and truly defined the person I am today. This leadership role as Vice President of Membership Recruitment, taught me leadership skills, responsibility and hard work ethic. While I was managing this position for our house I was also focusing on school, including making deans list in the process. It taught me how to stay on top of various tasks and how to overcome the pressures. Without this experience I do not know if I would be as efficient, responsible and outgoing in any leadership project or future career.

VOLUNTEER SERVICE

Last year for a school project I worked with the Ronald McDonald House to work with families in need. The families that go here are provided with temporary lodging, comfort and support for families with children who are going through a medical crisis. When my group did this volunteer work, we made dinner for the kids and family and actually got to play with them outside. This was such a great experience because not only did we hear what was going on with each individual child from the parents but even the children opened up to us as well, telling us their story. It was so rewarding to hear them say they appreciated what we were doing and we would never understand how much it helped. And we really didn’t know until we left that night. I am majoring in Sociology and have always wanted to work with kids. I have grown up volunteering with the Special Olympics and other under privileged kids so I knew that this was something I was always going to be interested in. However, this specific project had struck me hard, and it was unbelievably rewarding. After I graduate in June I am looking forward to doing more volunteer work and help children that are in need. This has shaped my outlook on life and helping these types of families is something that is rewarding for me. So I know this area of work is something I will always strive to do.

SARAH (sister)

I only have one older sibling, and her name is Sarah. Since day one she has always been my inspiration and role model. Without her I do not know who I would be because she has shaped so much of life in such a positive way. She is hard working and dedicated, and her passion for life is incredible. Through school and even work I have strived to be half the person she is because of her talent and enthusiasm in everything she puts her mind to. My standpoint on life has changed because of her and this had transformed my focus on who I want to be and what I want to do when I am older. She is a great supporter and friend, which greatly shaped my values and responsibilities through out life.