By Darian Shively
People who really want to make a difference in the world usually do it, in one way or another. I’ve noticed something about people who make a difference in the world: they hold the unshakable conviction that individuals are extremely important, that every life matters. They get excited over one smile. They are willing to feed one stomach, educate one mind, and treat one wound. They aren’t determined to revolutionize the world all at once; they’re satisfied with small changes. Over time, though, the small changes add up. Sometimes they even transform cities and nations, & yes, the world. As an International Studies/Law student, I am most dedicated to traveling the world. My ultimate goal in life is to be an ambassador for the United Nations working with Peace, Security, and Terrorism alongside Economic & Social Development. I want to travel to as many third world countries as I possibly can, not only for personal benefit but also to expand the extent of my experience in order to be at better chances of accomplishing success within my career. I personally take interest in traveling to developing countries in order to immerse myself into indigenous & minority cultures. The more experience, knowledge, & wisdom I gather from these regions, will consequently help me to obtain goals to focus on as I progress throughout my educational and post-educational career. In particular, my first trip will be to Universidad de la Habana in Cuba where I will spend time taking classes and living with a Cuban family, practicing my Spanish and ultimately finishing my educational minor in the language altogether. This is extremely important to me in order to travel to South American countries where poverty and issues with security & development are prominent. The cost of this trip is about $3,800 – $4,500 and is due by February 2016. The trip takes place from June 3, 2016 – July 2, 2016.