Service isn’t a hobby for me or a way for me to get ahead in the world; it is a key part of who I am. I guess you could say it helps define me. The importance of service was instilled in me by my mother who believed that you should always give of yourself.

My family grew up in poverty but even so, we always gave. I remember putting together care packages to send abroad to international families in need. My mother’s spirit of service encouraged me to seek out a life devoted to serving others.

This continued throughout my youth and into my college years. I spent part of my time at Iowa State engrossed in service-related organizations and the other part pursuing a major in political science/international studies, which I hoped would lead to a career in service. Iowa State provided a number of different opportunities to engage in service. I was involved with Circle K, Alternative Spring Break Trips, GRIP Mentoring, the ONE Campaign and the Non-Profit Protégé Program. These were only a few of the opportunities available at Iowa State.

I am currently serving a year of service as an AmeriCorps VISTA at the Volunteer Center of Story County. The skills I acquired during my service experience in college can be directly linked to my ability to fulfill the job responsibilities at my current position. So whether you are looking for a hobby or a career builder, or if you are just a person who defines themselves through service, you can find something to suit you. A perfect opportunity to start looking for opportunities is the upcoming Volunteer Fair from 5 to 9 p.m. Wednesday in the Campanile Room of the Memorial Union.