On the first day, I, along with 26 other girls, gathered together at CSUB to get ready for the busy week.
I remember when I first arrived on campus, I was shaking with anxiety and nervousness. But over the next couple of days, I made friends with a few girls. I stayed with my host parents, and I also had a roommate (shoutout to Molly for being the sweetest). I love my host parents...if only my parents knew how to cook like them heh.
I have to admit... the homesickness shook me hard the first couple of days, and there was nothing but tears and sadness, but throughout the week, I gradually started to gain confidence and open myself up to others.
DYW definitely rewarded me with life lessons and strengthened a few of my weaknesses:
- my public speaking skills
- communication skills
- it's okay not knowing what I want to do
- stay positive
- be yourself
I highly recommend any high school juniors to take part in this rewarding experience. It honestly was so much more than who won. It was the bond between friendship and love that all brought us together as a family.
- Mel
