For me, this past weekend was filled with events for the American Cancer Society. From collecting money for ACS, to participating in a wonderful luncheon for Caregivers by my friend, Megan Forby. It was during this event that made me realize why I do what I do.

In college, extracurriculars are not a requirement. So when people choose to join a club, it speaks volumes about what organization they chose, why they chose it, and how much effort they put in. Besides Kappa, my two biggest commitments (to me, outside of school), is Colleges Against Cancer and the Crisis Text Line.

So why did I choose Colleges Against Cancer? Not only do I do it to make my impact on finding a cure for cancer, but I do it for the cancer patients, the survivors, and the caregivers. I do it for the stories I get to hear about their fight, and wins, over cancer.

I do it to hear about their story, their journey that brought them here with me, walking at Relay for Life. Why? Because their story matters, and I’m lucky enough to be a part of it, the least I can do is contribute.

So that’s part one of two of my “biggest commitments”. So why Crisis Text Line? Mental health has been, and will always be, one of those topics that I advocate for with all my heart. I have had first and second hand experience with mental illness.

I know what its like, and I have seen where it can bring you. I want to be there for the people who feel like they have no one else. Who feel like their world is closing in on them. Who needs a listening ear. That’s why I volunteer with CTL, to be the ear, the voice, and the hope for those who feel like they lost it all, or want their story to be heard.

This is me, in a nut shell. I pull from my past experiences, and fight to make a difference in what I believe in. I chose organizations that I am passionate about so that I can give it my 110%.

Someone once told me you can learn a lot about a person if you listen to their story, so what’s your story? What made you decide to join the clubs/organizations that you are a part of?