Pumped for NOLA

Hey Bonners!

We're now only two days away from NOLA and I could not be more excited (and also a bit nervous). I think it's safe to say that my experience with construction is pretty limited. However, knowing that we, as a group, are going to be making a huge impact on one homeowner's life gives me certainty that even though I have limited experience, I'll be able to quickly learn new skills with the help of my Bonner team and make positive change within the lower ninth ward of New Orleans (even if it means one house at a time).

With that being said, I'm not really sure what to expect. What I've seen of the destruction from hurricane Katrina was only through pictures on the internet and on T.V. Witnessing the devastation and destruction caused by hurricane Katrina, even now in 2014, will definitely be an eye-opener. After this trip, I'm certain that I will have matured and that I will be able to return to TCNJ with a renewed sense of what my role is as a Bonner community scholar for promoting social justice not only locally, but on a national and even international level.

Also, how can I forget to mention how incredibly excited I am to be spending 25-26 hours in a van with my friends! Okay, maybe only 5-6 of those hours will be exciting and then I'll be pulling out the iPod and the books. All kidding aside though, I think the rides to and from New Orleans will be a great way for us to reconnect after spending three weeks apart when for the past semester we've spent every waking moment with each other. I think that the team bonding we'll achieve through the 25-26 hour drive will prepare for the immense teamwork needed to work efficiently and effectively with the St. Bernard Project.

Well, here's to NOLA 2014!