"Without change, there would be no butterflies." 

As I reflected on this quote, the word "change" jumped out at me. It suddenly hit me that my life is about to change in a dramatic way. However, I know that as I said goodbye to friends and family I will not be alone on this adventure. I'll change houses; I'll change countries; I'll change seasons, but more importantly this experience will change me. 

If I were to pack 6 memories in my carry on that have brought me to where I am today, they would be: 

College - My arrival at Niagara College, although 2 months delayed, was one of the happiest and scariest days of my life. With school map in hand (though I'm directionally challenged so maps have a tendency to get me in more trouble than help me) and mom at my side (Yes, I am a baby) I made it through the first days then weeks and suddenly I realized I belonged. My future is mine to make.  

Having Goals - That my future lay in tourism was a given. Niagara College helped me focus my goals on attainable realities. My personal potential was channeled when I used my skills and tools that I learned to fulfill my objectives. 

Acquiring Experience - Experience has many sides, from front desk receptionist at a hotel to supervisor with a tour company, each consecutive employment position has resulted in a combined work ethic that I am proud of. No matter what, I know that the skills I have acquired and the lessons that I have learned will continue to help and teach me along the way. 

Networking - Being my mothers daughter, it is no surprise to me that I am a school-aholic. I engrossed myself in my studies and I made a silent promise to myself that I will not slip through the cracks. I wanted my professors to get to know me and I wanted to get to know them. Through this silent promise to myself I gained an invaluable skill - networking. 

Getting Ready - Preparing for the CIDA, Canadian International Development Agency, interview was an exciting and scary process. Exciting because I grew to love and to believe 100% in everything that the organization stands for: the projects, the opportunities and the inspiration they give. Scary because I have never wanted something so much in my entire life. I knew that I had one chance to prove myself CIDA worthy and that was it. No pressure eh! 

Experiencing fulfillment of goals - After meeting with Kyla Pennie and Cassandra Musungayi for my interview, my heart pounding so hard in my chest I could hear it in my ears, I got an email a week later congratulating me on being selected to be a part of this years CIDA interns! Well, I have always worked well under pressure!

June 13th our pre-departure training began! This year there are 14 interns travelling to all different places around the world. The countries include Argentina, Brazil, Ecuador, Peru, South Africa and Dominican Republic. I had the pleasure of spending the last 3 weeks with all of them throughout the training. I feel as if we have become a CIDA family. I am excited to see what the future holds for us and I know that each and every one of us will do an amazing job. Sadly yesterday, June 29th, our training ended with lunch and good wishes. 

2012 CIDA Team

So now here I am - surrounded by clothes, travel books and unnecessary items that I have packed and repacked, thinking to myself of what a an incredible opportunity I have been given. I am ready to see all that Argentina has to offer and I am even more ready to show them what I have to offer! I am leaving in 2 days-9 hours-50 minutes and my life is on my bedroom floor and the list of "To Do" things is longer than my two forearms combined BUT I AM READY!

I will be sharing stories and experiences with you as they happen, so stay tuned for some Argentina Bound Chica adventures!