Amanda Lasik

Last Entry

Well, I feel like I should write something really profound for my last entry. Unfortunately, my mind is drawing a blank right now. I came into this job with few expectations. I had very little work experience, little knowledge of technology, and only a faint idea what I would be doing at La Casa Hogar. I remember seeing my workplan for the first time at my orientation and thinking uh-oh I don't speak Spanish fluently and I'm lacking in some of these other skills as well.

One of the greatest things I learned this year was how to make-do with what I've got. When my Spanish was limited I tried to use patience and non-verbal communication to compensate. When I had never taught a computer class, I tried to stick to what I knew and how I would best learn the program. When I'd never written a grant before, I did my research and proofread extensively. My willingness to try new things resulted in a great deal of learning and the acquisition of many skills. My confidence level in my Spanish abilities has improved 100 times over, and I gained a lot of experience in working with committees and organizing volunteers.

I will look back on my VISTA year as a transitional point in my life. A difficult year in many ways, but also very rewarding. It will be sad to leave such an opening, welcoming place as La Casa Hogar, but I am excited for the next step of my life-whatever that may be!