And just like that.....

.....My Summer Plans 2011 are set!

 For those of you who know, I will be taking a trip this summer! Now, normally during the summer many people take trips and go on vacations, but this trip is especially special to me. I will be traveling to Lesotho, Africa this summer for a study abroad opportunity. 

Many people I have talked to don't know much about Lesotho. Here are a few little facts: it is a landlocked country and entirely surrounded by the Republic of South Africa. It is just over 11,500 square miles in size with a population of approximately 2,067,000. It's capital and largest city is Maseru.  

This trip is being hosted through my school and more specifically with the Social Work program, which for those of you who don't know is my major. During this trip we will be assessing the community in light of social services and even in comparison to American social services. We will have the privilege of working in an orphanage in the city of Maseru, while also following a curriculum designed for this study abroad trip. I have never had the opportunity like this before and I am completely thrilled and excited about the possibilities of this trip. International Social Work has always been something that sparks my interest and I believe this trip will be a true learning opportunity and I can't wait for the adventures to unfold. 

Through my learning in my social work classes, I have learned a great deal about compassion.. It is something I feel like all social workers must have to make it through the end of the day. I believe this trip will teach me a new definition of compassion, but that it will also teach me the importance of social services throughout our world. The thing about being a social worker, is that there is no glory involved. Many people misunderstand our purpose or our intentions. I am fully prepared for these realities of the job. Even though this is most often the case, I still feel like this is what I am supposed to do with my life. Being accepted into this trip is another learning opportunity for me, and another way to show compassion that God has shown me.

Lastly, this trip is rather pricey as in $5,450 pricey... I currently am 1/5 of the way there on fund raising, but if for some reason you are reading this blog and it is in your heart to donate to me, my address is PO Box 9521 Unit 4110 Azusa, Ca 91702. I would be more than appreciative and truly do consider it such a blessing!

Currently awaiting summer,

 Taylor