I have been packing for days, but it feels like much longer. Getting ready for a trip is not just about getting everything in a suitcase (or two very large ones, plus a carry-on of course). Preparation began many months ago when I applied to be an intern with the Department of State. With the news of receiving an offer, I was very pleased. A few weeks later when I found out my post would be Lima, Peru, I was literally jumping up and down and yelling over the phone with my mom. A much longer two months passed until I received my security clearance. At that point, I was filled with joy. It meant I was off on another great adventure.
After the end of a busy semester, I have had the luxury of a few days at home. Tomorrow I will fly out of Charlotte, arriving in Lima on Friday morning. I will have the long weekend to get settled in and will begin my ten week internship on Tuesday. I am very happy to be receiving academic credit for this internship with the completion of assignments for the course throughout the ten weeks.
Many people have helped me arrive at this point of embarkation.
Thanks go out to my family members who are always incredibly supportive of my goals. The Framily, as we like to call our closest friends, has been a huge motivator and supporter in my life. You know who you are and you got me here. I am a strong believer in the phrase 'it takes a village'. All the warm wishes for success and safety make me go forward with a full heart.
Shout-out to my professors and teachers that have taught me the skills I need. Today I feel especially thankful for my Spanish teachers that have inspired me to achieve fluency in this beautiful language and explore the various cultures of Spanish speaking countries.
A huge thanks to the Levine Scholars Program that supports me in my studies, service and personal growth at UNC-Charlotte. Without the generosity of the Levine family this incredible opportunity may not have been possible.
I will come home in August and will return to Charlotte shortly after for the first day of classes.
I hope to return with new ideas, many memories and direction for the future to come.
I expect this will be a place where I share my experiences that occur outside of the office. Looking forward to sharing and to hear about what is going on in all of your lives.
I will be available via Skype: sacreasy by WhatsApp Messenger and by email samantha.a.creasy@gmail.com
