Bryn Vargo

The world of construction never inspired me until I went on this trip. I grew up on a farm and was always handy when it came to helping my father with projects, but until I went on this trip, I never realized how special it truly is. The feeling of building a house for a family and being able to put a roof over those children's heads is a feeling I can barely put into words. I did not have the training in construction like the guys on the trip did, but I was still able to help paint and hang siding. I was able to see a house being put up right in front of my eyes and it was truly fun for someone who does not get to see that. It inspired me to try to build more things at home and even consider taking the trip again next year to do it all again.

The world of nursing inspires me quite a bit differently since that is my comfort zone and my specialty. It inspires me to be the best version of myself so that I can help others with their health needs. On my trip to the Dominican Republic we did not do anything medical, but I saw many things I wanted to help with while we were on our house visits. We were dropping groceries off and praying over these families in need. When they invited us into their homes, I saw wound dressings that needed to be changed and applied properly, along with many other health concerns I would have loved to aid these people with. Both worlds came together on my trip, and I could not be more thankful I went out of my comfort zone on a construction trip.

I learned about this opportunity from Wayne Sheppard, construction management faculty, because he is my sister-in-law's father. He told me about the opportunity while our families were out to dinner together. I felt comfortable taking this trip because I knew Wayne would help me with whatever I needed. I had never flown before, nor have I ever been out of the country. I had always wanted to go on a mission trip, and this was the perfect chance for me to go with someone I knew and was comfortable with.

Each day was filled with activities which kept me busy. I was able to experience Santiago, Puerto Plata, Villa Tapia, and Punta Cana. I was able to experience “The Dump,” where people sort through trash for recycling that they can then trade in for money. We handed out sandwiches and cold water to the people working. The house was a main component of our trip and was fun. I tried to prepare myself for how hot the Dominican is, but I was still so hot, and I was drenched everyday by the time we were done. I did not realize how much I appreciated air conditioning until I went on this trip. We also hosted a carnival for children while we were there. It was fun to see the children so excited. A main highlight for me personally was the church service. I do not know much Spanish, but I could get the gist of their prayers and music. The church was so lively and welcoming. Their music was beautiful. I could not help myself but to clap and dance along. Watching the people rejoice in the Lord and share the same passion for Him as me was beautiful to watch and experience.

To everyone who invested in my global experience, I cannot thank you enough for what you have done to make it happen. I am so grateful and profoundly changed by the experience I was provided. I hope that I can encourage others to give it a try and help them with their journey.

Penn College is helping me become a nurse, which is my dream job. The nursing program is fantastic, and the teachers are some of the best. They are teaching me everything I need to know to succeed in the major I chose. The experiences they offer, such as this Global Experience, is also opening my eyes to other paths I could take with nursing such as traveling nursing or being able to provide my skills on another mission trip.