Having the opportunity to work with the DREAM Project back in 2013 is one that I will never forget. Their commitment to youth development and creating opportunities for advancement serve as an inspiration to many. I truly believe that I wouldn’t be where am I now, returning to the DR this past August as a Youth Development Facilitator as a Peace Corps volunteer, without my first experience with DREAM. They opened my eyes to the impact that intercultural engagement, and stepping outside of your comfort zone can have on a young person's future, and for that, I am forever grateful.

Deciding to move to the Dominican Republic and work with the DREAM Project, Bachata Academy to teach music, has definitely been one of the most challenging yet rewarding decisions. Still, even having little to no idea what was waiting for me, I felt comfortable making that choice because I was clear of my desires, abilities and limitations. I cannot say the same for my students and their understanding of themselves. I teach music theory, piano, and voice, but where I can say that this struggle mostly takes place is in my voice lessons.

I have always wanted to work with teens and young adults. My goal has always been to help them to improve their quality of life through counseling and personal development programs; so when I got the chance to work with A Ganar in the DREAM Project, I jumped on that opportunity. I was eager to work with Dominican youth and not sure if I was ready to work with them in via classroom setting. You see, I never had aspirations to be a teacher; while I respected the profession, I never truly pictured myself following that career path. So when I was told that I would be in charge of giving the English classes for the second phase of A Ganar, I was hesitant, but ultimately I said “okay, I will try.”