Before I began college at Pace University, I took a journey of a lifetime. I went to Addis Ababa, Ethiopia to volunteer in an Orphanage. I went with an Organization called Projects Abroad and stayed there for a month and a half. Projects Abroad provided me with a host family and the volunteer placement, other than that I was on my own. I used the public buses and walking to get around town, and I volunteered at the Orphanage Monday through Friday for 8-10 hours per day. During the first half of the day I lead several classroom sessions and tutored the older children in spoken English. This was like "summer school" to keep the children practicing for when they begin regular school again in the fall. During the second half of the day I cared for and played with the infants, toddlers and handicapped/disabled children. During the weekends I visited the outskirts of Ethiopia with my housemates, fellow volunteers and Ethiopian friends that I made. I was also able to visit many religious sites that were important to Orthodox Christianity, which is my religion. I went to family gatherings with my host family, and almost felt as if I was a part of the family. I made unforgetable frienships, and created memories that will last a lifetime. This experience changed my life and made me certain that I wanted to be a teacher, and that I am well suited for teaching related jobs.

     As of Fall 2011 I have been a sister of Phi Sigma Sigma sorority. I have already gained so many leadership skills, and have participated in many philanthropic/community service events that Phi Sigma Sigma hosted. Some of these events include a National Kidney Foundation Benefit, "Rock Out With Phi Sig" (An outdoor fundraiser where we raise money for The National Kidney Foundation and rock in rocking chairs- such as patients who are on dialysis do), Prom Dress Donation for underpriveledged teens and many more! We also participated in many other Philanthropic events including "Pace Makes A Difference Day", "Just beCAUSE" hosted by NALFO (National organization uniting Latino sororities and fraternities), "MS Walk" hosted by Delta Phi Epsilon, "Relay For Life" and many more.

     I've had the priveledge of being chosen to hold several leadership positions in Phi Sigma Sigma. My first position was the Scholarship Committe Chair for spring 2012. I kept track of every sister's GPA and provide ways for sisters to improve their GPA (if a sister was struggling, I would plan a study schedule for her and set her up for appointments at the tutoring center).

     Afterwards I was the Alumni Historian Committe Chair. I planned the 25th anniversary for our chapter. This was huge responsibility, but I was honored to be in contact with our wonderful alumni and I was honored to be trusted with planning this event. It was a great event with a great turnout that reminded me what an honor it is to be a Phi Sigma Sigma.

     Currently, I am planning our formal event for the end of the semester. I enjoyed taking the event planning responsibility and decided to take on the challenge again.