2008 Guatemala Service Trip
On January 18, seven cadets and two teachers left on a trip that would redefine their lives. These nine volunteers worked down in Guatemala for little over a week. Their jobs included everything from teaching the locals to building houses.
Upon looking back on the journey, A. Housh '09 said that, “This was the greatest experience in my life. When I first arrived in Guatemala I could not comprehend how these people lived in such deplorable living conditions. However, after a week of being with the locals, I felt sorry for myself. Sorry that I was unable to have their positive attitude about everything. The people there were always happy and thankful for what they did have. Without a doubt, this was the best experience in my life.”
Another important part of this trip involved becoming a leader. JROTC instructor Fernando Hernandez commented that, “These boys were really leaders. They were trusted to do what they had to do in order to make the trip a success. And they jumped at the challenge and displayed some great self-confidence and motivation.”
On a related note, Senior M. Wangen said, “Trust was huge. We needed to show the teachers that we were up to the challenge, and they rewarded us by letting us go to town to experience the culture. I loved this trip.”
Overall, this trip was a huge success. Each of the cadets and teachers learned a lot about service and why it is important. Furthermore, each of these boys gave the trip a 10/10 rating and recommend it to anyone.
~ S-5 Public Affairs Officer T. Ryan '08
