Community is a foundation upon which many of our beliefs, values, and ambitions are built. I am inspired to get involved in my community because I know that these connections with others will shape the person I will become and will present opportunities for me to give back and serve. We have powerful opportunities to make a difference when we get involved in our communities, in this time of life, college is such a dynamic and impactful experience, especially with the different groups and areas of the community we are exposed to. I am inspired to make the most of this time of my life by getting involved intentionally, saying yes to opportunities, and stepping out of my comfort zone. Through this I know I will have the opportunity to gain valuable experiences, make genuine connections, and work toward worthwhile goals. In my community at college, I find myself amidst many different groups such as my on-campus ministry, my classes, choirs, and work. I have worked to influence my community in many different ways as a part of these distinct groups. I have been able to take on the role of a life group leader as a part of H2O Church at Kent State, I strive for excellence in my school work and to be supportive of others, I lean into hard work and learn to support others around me, and I seek out opportunities to learn and grow in my own limitations. So often, influencing change in my community comes from taking a look at my own limitations, struggles, and shortcomings and approaching growth through humility. Through inward reflection I am able to turn my reflection outward to the wider scope of community. Through this viewpoint, I am able to then approach my areas of influence in my community with the mindset that we are all growing together to develop, make a difference, and support one another in our own imperfect ways. By having this common understanding we are able to cultivate understanding, compassion, and intentional change. I am fortunate in these areas of the community that I have found people to come alongside me to inspire this change and sharpen one another as we learn and grow together. It is important when you seek to inspire change that you have others around you for support, accountability, and for new and brighter ideas that will be generated when many unique minds and experiences come together under one common goal or many goals.

In my sophomore year of high school my family went on a missions trip to Ichmul Mexico. This was the farthest I had ever been from home in a place where I didn't know the language well and I felt like I was a fish out of water. Meeting the people, experiencing a different way of living was a truly enriching experience that I will remember for the rest of my life. I am a Christian and seeing God move in a completely new environment pushed me deeper in what I believe.

My dog Gunner is one of my best friends, he came into our lives right before the loss of our other dogs. He helped us get through that time with his endless energy, loving personality, and just seeing his sweet face each day. @abeacom16