Every Study Abroad program is a transforming experience, but there is something special about a service trip. On Friday I found myself just soaking up the joy that comes from serving others. The focus is on empowering at risk girls. We are building a wall, teaching swimming, English, softball, math and bicycling. We have taken walks through the community and heard stories of the residents. The best comments from the students have been the interactions and impact they are having on individual girls. The enthusiasm, hope and dedication of the international leadership at the center are inspiring and contagious.

There is just something about direct interaction with these girls that results in just as much benefit for the students as for the local residents. Experiences like this build connections not just with a place and culture, but with other persons. The resulting joy is in the air.