Mission Trip To Jamaica

I never knew that one week during summer could have such a great impact on my life. My church and I went on a mission trip to Jamaica where we stayed at Eden Christian School for the Deaf. Our mission was to help in a Christian orphanage, build a school, and teach about God.
Stepping off the plane and arriving to Jamaica was a very big culture shock. I was in awe of the beautiful landscape that covered the island. The food was different and the climate was very hot and sticky. On the third night I threw up because my body was not adjusting to all the changes. Closing my eyes, I wished that I could go home and stay in my bed. I wanted to be in air conditioning and sleep for the rest of the day. But I couldn’t. I needed to get up. I needed to help build the school. So that’s what I did. I got up from sitting next to the toilet, drank some water, had breakfast, and helped my group pour concrete.
The next night I was able to connect with Obey, one of the deaf boys that was staying at the school during summer break.
I did not know sign language before coming to Jamaica, but he taught me the alphabet and a few words so we could communicate. With my lack of experience writing our conversation was much easier for the both of us. Obey told me about himself and all of the hobbies that he loved to do.
Our trip was sadly coming to a close, so on the last day we went to the beach. There was an aqua park in the ocean with giant inflatable slides and trampolines. We were getting tired from climbing on them as we swam around, so we decided to swim back to the shore. I was the last one to jump off the inflatable to start swimming in when I noticed Obey looking panicked and I quickly figured out that he was not going to be able to stay afloat much longer. I swam over to him, he thankfully grabbed my arm as I lead us back to the shore, giving us both a break. We sat down and he said, “thank you,” in sign
language.
Pennsylvania University is ranked eighth in the whole country and has some of the best programs and resources. I want to go to Penn State to further my learning and create fresh, new memories. During my time at Penn State, many challenges will come my way. Whether these come from the classroom or social events, I know I am prepared. My past moments have prepared me for the present and now I am creating my future. I have found self-determination to succeed in college. As my eyes start to see part of the world, I realize how much I want to finally be a part of it all.