I’m not sure of what I originally anticipated learning during pre-departure training. I came into it a little blind and very, very hopeful. What I did know, though, was my past self. I was quiet and shied away from people I didn't know well. I never tried to start any conversations, and I definitely wouldn't have volunteered to participate in many activities. All that changed the very moment I met some people at SFO. Everyone was accepting and inviting, and I felt like I could be whoever I wanted to be around them. It was in those moments that I decided that I couldn't let that freedom go to waste. From that, I learned these values:
Risk Is Good – Without taking a calculated risk, one cannot truly gain experience. Get into the stretch zone.
Keep An Open Mind – Reserving judgement until you have more perspectives of someone else allows you to understand and better yourself.
Allow Assistance – It's never a bad thing to ask for help or advice. Don't be too prideful about asking for help, because people can always help in some way if you're willing to let them.
How To Snap – Seriously, it was important.
I loved PDT and everyone there, and I am so excited for the rest of the year!
