The Dream Continues - Enjoy the Journey

Many have asked since my article in The Shriver Report and a variety of exciting events, including getting into graduate school, if I was going to continue the blog I worked on in my undergrad at The University of Texas.  I had not really considered it; however,  I wanted to continue my platform to encourage others to pursue their dreams and especially women who desire and are in pursuit of an education. So, here goes. Enjoy the journey and encourage others to pursue their passion!

August 2014 brought me to Houston, Texas, much to my surprise and need I say, delight! I just wrapped up an adventurous, fun-filled and exciting foundation semester at the University of Houston GCSW. The past 6 months have been amazing and quite honestly, pretty shocking. I had not planned on a career in social work nor had I ever, no never, thought I would live in Houston. We make our plans but often what is best for us comes as a complete surprise. Fortunately the shock value here has been nothing but pleasant and exciting.

The GCSW at UH has been a place of encouragement, growth and continued development toward what one day will help me obtain my PHD. I have found this university and program to be a perfect fit for me and my goals. I have been consistently amazed with the support I received and the opportunities afforded. I jumped in with zeal and enthusiasm, getting involved with "Policy Insiders" which brings speakers to campus to draw attention to policies affecting all populations. It has been a great tool for my education as I learn the impact policy has, well, on everything! I also applied to be a GCSW Ambassador, mainly because I wanted others pursuing a social work education to evaluate the potential of the GCSW at UH.  Nor do I want others to diminish Houston, as I have found it holds such a beautiful diversity and character and opportunities. Being an Ambassador gives me a platform to discuss my experiences and education, while encouraging others to highly consider UH.

Last but not least, I have had an amazing experience the past four months with my cohort. I am surrounded by men and women who have encouraged, embraced and enlightened me in so many areas, from the LGBTQ community to cultural diversity. I would be lost without many of them and appreciate even those I have not completely connected the dots. I feel quite certain that I have made some life long friends

The most exciting recent event in the life of this graduate student is my recent invitation to attend the Clinton Global Initiative University in Miami in March, 2015. I wanted this more than I can even describe. There are no words..yes, there really are. With much irritation and annoyance from my family, I  ran around screaming "I'm going to Miami" until they threatened me with my life!   I am still reeling with excitement and disbelief. I, along with 2 of my fellow peers, drafted a proposal to create a health fair, which will impact the Houston community, those who have a lack of resources. Basic resources that many of us take for granted.  I wanted to go to Miami and yet, even in the midst of working on it, I  knew it was a long shot. Goes to show, what do I know about the possibilities and potential? What it once again reveals, if you want it, go for it - Reach for the moon…you may get the stars! Another goal I have had for the past few years is to find ways to engage others in giving back, serving their communities and especially engaging college students in service learning. This will be a wonderful opportunity to recruit other University of Houston students to help with our project. So excited!!!

Stay tuned…lots more great stuff to be birthed out of living my dream!