One time, a homeless approached me. He told me that, although he lives on the street and doesn’t have many material things, his life is great. He’s not on any medication. He’s not in a wheelchair. And he doesn’t have crutches. For these things, he said, he is grateful.

As I listened, my eyes swelled with tears. This man had nothing, and no place to call home, but he still had so much joy and life within him. It was really beautiful. This was during my sophomore year, on alternative spring break. We traveled to D.C. and spent a few days preparing and serving hot meals to the city’s homeless. Homeless—a word with such negative connotations.

Spending time with these individuals was amazing. They had so much to share. And we had so much to share with them. The less fortunate people I’ve met and had the opportunity to help have also helped me. They’ve positively /impacted my life in so many ways. These people have more life and hope in them then anyone I’ve ever met. They make me want to strive for more—to be better able to help others. They make me realize how joyful I should be.

I don’t know whether I’ve changed lives or not, but I know that I have a passion for helping others. Doing service work made me realize that my dream career focuses on helping people—not sitting behind a desk. That’s just not me.

My dream is to work in higher education. It’s funny because, in high school, I thought I wanted to work in business—a totally different world. But one day something clicked, and I realized I’d love to work with students and help them navigate through life’s journeys.

Looking back to the beginning of my freshman year, I realize how RMU has changed me. It helped me expand, and it made me who I am now. Before coming here, people probably knew me as the loud, talkative one who does her own thing. After RMU, I still talk a lot. But I’m also a great listener.