Joyce Vilson Blog 1

Growing up as a disney-obsessed and imaginative girl my first thought of New Orleans was always the setting of The Princess and the Frog. I always anticipated kind people, the heart of jazz music, and an evolving culture. Ten years later, although I may have realized that life is not always a fairytale, I truly hope for this experience to be both culturally enriching and eye-opening. As a Bonner Scholar, this past semester has allowed me to understand the social injustice and several forms of environmental racism implemented among the innocent citizens of New Orleans who continue to suffer from the effects of the recent hurricanes. In knowing this information, as a team, I know the service project will be an opportunity to provide assistance in the process of reconstruction for the disasters that have occured. Most importantly, even if the ultimate goal is to dedicate our time and make a difference, I also hope to have a memorable experience alongside my peers.
Other than finally being able to taste the scrumptious smell of Gumbo, I cannot wait to enjoy the beauty of Lake Pontchartrain and the Tree of Life. As an avid lover of scenic landscapes I think visiting a new area will give me the chance to take a step back and reflect upon my purpose. Moreover, in the span of ten days, the most rewarding site will be the progress of our service performed and visually being able to take in the impact made from both determination and teamwork.
Overall, the most exciting component of this service trip will be going through the different phases of construction. Personally, the painting and priming phases will probably be the most enjoyable. As someone who has failed multiple times “DIY-ing” and binge watches Property Brothers, I truly hope this experience is unforgettable.

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Sofia Cartagena Blog 2

These first few days have been really enjoyable for me. Not only have I spent time bonding with my fellow first years more than I have this past semester, I’ve also gotten to know some of the chaperones a bit better. The time spent painting the siding of the house, trimming baseboards for the floor, and conversing with everyone was truly amazing. I am excited to see the final product of the house that displays all of our hard work and determination. After going on a tour of the city, we witnessed how even after 13 years the city has yet to be rebuilt. Throughout my experience thus far I have learned how resilient the residents of NOLA truly are. By having this opportunity to help build a house for a person who has, for example, not been able to return to NOLA since Hurricane Katrina is an uplifting and unforgettable experience.
Read more

Freddie Hayeck Blog 1

I am very excited for my freshman trip to New Orleans with my Bonner class. Every upperclassman that attended has all said positive remarks about the trip, and I hear a common phrase that ‘it is one of the most fun experiences in Bonner’. That being said, I expect the trip to be one of the best experiences the Bonner program offers, to grow closer to my Bonner community, and to give back to an overlooked part of society. I have only spent a semester with my Bonner class, but I am really happy to be apart of it because we have already developed a strong community and friendship. This bond gives me the confidence that my trip to New Orleans will live up to, and even exceed, my expectations.   Towards the end of the fall semester, I learned about the impact Hurricane Katrina had on the poor and minority communities of New Orleans. I’ve seen the damage through a documentary and pictures, but it is always different to see it in person. To walk the streets of a neighborhoo
Read more

Jocelyne Guzman Blog 2

This trip was not what I expected or planned it to be. It has been so much more filling and a great experience so far. It is difficult because of school work to get our class together a lot of the times, so this has been such a great bonding experience as well. I have gotten to know those in my class even more and work and laugh with them. A challenge so far has been the work on the floors. It was very tedious but as a group we were able to get it done and it was such a great feeling. I would definitely like to get to know my class more and the history of Katrina and its impact.
Read more