The Beginning: A Leap of Faith and Tenacity
My journey began with a simple yet profound decision – to apply to community college. As a mom of two young children, this step was laden with uncertainties and challenges. Balancing motherhood with academic aspirations felt like walking a tightrope. However, the desire to further my education to set an example for my children was a driving force more potent than any fear.
Graduating from community college was not just an academic achievement but a personal triumph over the doubts and hurdles that often hold back adult learners. This milestone was not an end but a gateway to greater aspirations, leading me to the University of Washington at Bothell campus. There, my academic journey blossomed. Initially drawn to environmental studies, I soon found a new passion in Law, Economics, and Public Policy. This combination of majors was not just a reflection of my interests but a representation of my evolving perspective on how I could contribute to the world.
Transition to University Life: Embracing New Challenges
The transition to the University of Washington at Bothell was a significant leap from my community college experience. The campus, with its sprawling greens and buzzing student life, starkly contrasted with the more intimate setting I had grown accustomed to. I remember stepping onto the campus for the first time, feeling excitement and nervousness, aware that this was the beginning of a new chapter.
As I delved deeper into my majors, I became increasingly drawn to the intersection of environmental policy and law. I remember a class discussion on climate change policy that sparked a deep interest in me, leading to hours of additional research and eventually influencing my decision to take up a second major in Law, Economics, and Public Policy. This decision reflected my growing understanding of our world’s complex challenges and my desire to be a part of the solution. The university experience was not just about academic growth but also personal development. I found myself growing more confident, more articulate, and more driven. I was not just a student; I was a mother on a mission, armed with knowledge and a determination to make a difference.
The Study Abroad Opportunity: A Leap into the Global Arena
The opportunity to study abroad was a pivotal moment in my academic journey. I was immediately captivated when I first learned about the CSR-focused trip to Thailand and Cambodia. Exploring corporate social responsibility in an international context was not just academically appealing; it resonated with my values.
Preparing for the trip was an adventure in itself. I spent weeks researching Thailand and Cambodia’s cultural and environmental landscapes, eager to immerse myself fully. Balancing my studies and family responsibilities while planning this trip was challenging yet thrilling. I recall late-night sessions where I would map out our potential itineraries, aligning them with the academic goals of the trip.mThis study abroad experience was not just an opportunity for academic enrichment but a chance to step out of my comfort zone and engage with global issues firsthand. It promised to be a journey that would broaden my academic horizons and offer profound personal growth and a deeper understanding of my role in the global community.
Reflections: A Journey of Growth and Aspiration
Reflecting on my journey from a mom stepping into community college to traversing international boundaries for education, I realize how much I have grown. Each experience, whether in the bustling streets of Bangkok or the historic paths of Siem Reap, contributed to my understanding of global issues and my role in addressing them.
This journey was not just about academic accomplishments; it was a transformative experience that broadened my perspectives and strengthened my resolve to contribute positively to society. My adventures in Thailand and Cambodia have instilled a deep sense of responsibility and a clearer vision for my future endeavors.
As I step into my internship with the House of Representatives, I carry with me the knowledge from textbooks and the invaluable lessons learned from diverse cultures and environments. This journey has equipped me to approach challenges with a more holistic and empathetic perspective, ready to make a meaningful impact in the world, all because of that one day.
