Summer 2014 was probably one of the hardest times in my life but one of the most fulfilling. I was working on campus all summer with the Orientation office and looking forward to a fun summer spent with friends. I did have an awesome experience working with OFPS, but I felt a sense of isolation that I had never experienced before. Many friends I thought would be around during the summer were either busy with work or, in special cases, leaving me behind to pursue things I did not have interest in.

It was July when I had my first heartbreak and I cried day and night, going in and out of episodes of deep depression. I tell this story as a part of my LEAD experience because it was not until I had started attending bible studies and went on the LEAD retreat did I start to feel a since of wholeness again. I remember sitting on a large rock at the retreat and staring up at the moon with Keilah and just talking about everything. I remember really being in touch with all of my emotions and starting to let go of the hurt I had felt the month before. Although I did not completely heal in that one moment, it started me on a journey to really going after building my relationship with God.

When we returned from retreat I started to make strides to living a healthier lifestyle that I feel truly made me a better person. I committed to the bible studies, sharing my faith, and truly letting go of the things that were holding me back. On October 19th, 2014, I got baptized and have not looked back since. This was a crucial turning point in my life and it helped me realize just how important finding passion and hope in something is.

I have gained the best brothers and sisters and a new way of living. The LEAD office has been a support for me and has respected the time that I devote to my faith. It is one thing to find a job that supports you as a leader and fosters an environment that you can grow in and it is a pleasure to work in an office that respects and admires the values you uphold for yourself.