The specific experiences in the past year that have had the most impact on my personal goals and life trajectory was my involvement in Bearcat Buddies and Lindner Ambassadors. I have always loved serving in a teaching role. Coming out of high school, based on my experience as a taekwondo instructor, I knew I wanted to be involved in an organization where I could serve in a mentorship/teaching role. Finding both Lindner Ambassadors and Bearcat Buddies was integral to shaping my first-year experience.

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Through Lindner Ambassadors, I was able to develop my communication and public speaking skills. Sitting on multiple student panels and attending recruitment events gave me confidence in myself. After these successful experiences, I was able to reach out to some students personally so I could share more about the university and hopefully connect with them. Being a mentor to prospective students has been a very valuable experience and through interacting with them I was able to realize my passion for UC and Lindner. Speaking with prospective students allowed me to see how much I have grown in the short year since I was in their shoes. One year ago, I never could have imagined the friends I would meet, classes and professors I would experience, or trips I would embark on, all as a result of Lindner and UC.  Going forward, I will continue to serve as an ambassador for the Lindner College with the specific goal of building a stronger relationship with the recruitment team so I can help shape the recruitment experience for prospective students.

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I joined Bearcat Buddies second semester. I knew I would be serving in a tutoring role at a local elementary school, but I did not realize then the impact this experience would have on me. I worked with a kindergarten-first grade class so most of my time with them was spent doing fun crafts, reading books, or simply just talking. During the weeks I was there, I formed a very close relationship with my bearcat buddy. I was personally fulfilled by being able to share my stories, answer her silly questions (especially how it was possible that I lived with my roommate who wasn’t my sister), and be a friend to her. I hope to continue my involvement in bearcat buddies going forward with the ultimate goal of applying to becoming a lead tutor for the organization next spring.

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My first year as a UC bearcat was amazing. I look forward to the years and experiences to come.