When we came back from Louisiana I did not know what I thought about our trip and experience so when people asked how it was, my response was “It was interesting.” Of course that lead to long conversations of walls, trees, and multi-grain bread but everyone was always impressed with knowing that a group of us went to Louisiana to help someone else besides ourselves.

In my opinion, this trip could be revamped in numerous ways that probably will or will not be explored. Right now we are in the process of writing our papers and preparing for a presentation later this month. Even though my first word to describe this trip is “interesting,” I had plenty of fun and made new friends.

This has been an interesting first week. One of the most important things I have learned while in NOLA working on Sgt. Johnson’s house was that the perspective of the volunteer is recognized by those who are assisted. It felt like this moment of relief to know that our work was appreciated by him and that we were doing what he expected to his house. I was very happy to meet him and I was energized after he came by his house. Volunteering is one thing and service is another. We were doing a service even though we are voluntourist. We need more people who work to tackle one thing at a time instead of mindlessly working towards no tangible goal for anyone but themselves. I have learned that the city of New Orleans is more intricately complicated than I originally believe. With so much historical tension, corruption, poverty, and under development of many sectors there is no way to truly understand the situation in under a lifetime. I am thankful to have the opportunity to come down here with this group of people.

When I think of going south of the Mason Dixie line, I always think of going home but this is a completely new experience. We have learned a lot so far and I do not know what to expect once we arrive. I am not nervous but I do believe that I am anxious to see what is in store for us and to experience the culture and lives of the people of Louisiana.

I think I am overwhelmed with information and I am expecting something that is completely different from what I am used to in the south. I will be content when we arrive and I have had my first encounter with folks. I am very excited! I cannot wait to share this experience with new friends.