Topic > Personal Statement: Growing Up in a Mexican Family

If someone had asked me two years ago what I wanted to be, I would have greeted them with silence. I used to be a very antisocial person and didn't really like speaking in front of the audience, the public or even my small group of friends. I was the kind of girl who preferred to stay home on weekends and watch Netflix instead of going out. But everything changed when I went on a mission trip with my church to Mexicali. The church I attend has a volunteer group that travels every 2-3 months on weekends to Mexicali. During these trips we distribute clothes, food, basic necessities, toys and candy to all children and people living in poverty in Mexico. Many people who live there live in difficult conditions and struggle to provide a home for their families. My first trip was a life-changing experience because it changed the person I was. I have become an active and outgoing person. I have started to appreciate and value the possessions I have at home. Every time I see the kids of Mexicali happy when they receive a pair of shoes or a piece of sandwich I am pleased with myself because I am able to help them with what I can. During this series of trips I discover my passion and how I have a soft spot for children. Since Mexicali and where I live have a very long driving distance and I can't go every day, I also volunteer to help the children and adults in my community. I have help