As a young professional, the opportunity to attend the Global Ties National meeting was invaluable. I gained new skills, ideas, and networks to support me in my current role as a Program Officer at Global Ties Arkansas. I also had the incredible opportunity to meet with high level members of the State Department, and current and former Foreign Service Officers and Peace Corp Volunteers, which are both opportunities I would like to pursue.
Advocating for Global Ties and DOS ECA funding with senators and representatives offices gave me unique experiences and professional development opportunities I would not otherwise have. A large impact of the National Meeting for me was the opportunity to connect with members across the community interested in further developing their youth programs, inspiring me to begin a program for Global Ties Arkansas.
The meeting was my first time in DC as well. My self-guided walking tour of over 15 miles in two days, let me explore DC, many of its monuments and see a lot of history and beautiful architecture. I fell in love! Prior to the meeting, I had actually discounted many schools as strong contenders for continuing my education post-grad, since they were located in DC. Now, it is a city I am anxious to return to! The meeting helped grow my current and future career goals, personal aptitudes and development, and my first look at DC, a possible future home. I am forever grateful for the opportunity to attend this year's Global Ties National Meeting.