Contributing to my community has always been a journey of purpose, connection, and personal development rather than merely a means of gaining volunteer hours. I’ve learned something new about empathy, leadership, and the value of contributing to something greater than myself from every chance I've had to help others. Through my experiences, particularly volunteering at the Riverside Citrus State Historic Park gift store, I’ve seen how community service can genuinely mold a person and has aided me in pursuing my professional aspiration of teaching elementary school. Volunteering at the Citrus State Historic Park gift shop allowed me to engage with local families, school field trips, and tourists from other towns who were curious about Riverside’s rich agricultural past. Working in the gift shop gave me the opportunity to convey bits of local history to visitors in addition to assisting with organization and customer service. Seeing how something as simple as a story about our citrus past might spark interest and draw people closer to the origin of our community was satisfying. This experience opened my eyes to how learning can happen outside the classroom, and it played a major role in inspiring my decision to pursue a degree in Elementary Education. Watching children light up when they made connections to what they were learning in school reminded me of the power of education to spark imagination and understanding. I knew I wanted to be part of that, to help create those “aha” moments in the classroom daily. Beyond my work at the gift shop, I've also participated in many service activities, from tutoring younger students to helping with local clean-up days and community events. These experiences taught me the value of teamwork, patience, and dedication. I’ve learned that making a difference doesn’t require grand gestures, it can start with simply being present, listening, and offering help when needed most. As I look ahead to college, my goal is to earn a degree in Elementary Education and become a teacher who not only supports academic success but also nurtures emotional and social development. I want to work in communities where I can be a source of encouragement and stability for students during their formative years. I'm also excited to continue giving back through service and campus events, further developing the skills and values that will shape me as a teacher and a leader. Giving back has grounded me, inspired me, and given me a clear sense of purpose. It has shown me the impact one person can make, and it's helped me realize that the best way to create change is to start within your own community. As I move forward in my education and career, I carry those lessons with me, grateful for where I’ve come from and hopeful for the difference I make ahead.