Arisleidy Nunez, Tanzania 2014

When I first came to Rutgers, I wasn't certain on what the future would hold for me, but I knew that with hard work, dedication, and a positive attitude anything would be possible. And I knew that I wanted to leave the world a better place, even if it was through small acts or by sharing a smile. I also knew that I wanted to learn about new cultures around the world and pay-it-forward in some capacity. The summer of my freshman year in college, I had the humbling opportunity to partake in a service-learning initiative in Tanzania and was able to experience Tanzania through a social justice lens. Many people talk about moments that shape them or what we often refer to as "aha" moments, and I can tell you that for me Tanzania was one of those life-changing and transformative experiences. Tanzania confirmed the power of an education, the arts, and how we can transcend barriers, transform lives, and shape the world through service. Tanzania was the spark that ignited the fire and my passion for service. While working with students in Tanzania, I realized that I would like to work in education policy, and leverage the power of students through education.

Upon my return in the United States, I used those lessons to work as a social change agent through nonprofits, public service, and private organizations. This led me to seek opportunities and get involved through the Eagleton Institute of Politics Undergraduate Associates Program, Braven Accelerator program, and the Americorps-Jumpstart program. I also interned at the Office of U.S. Senator Cory A. Booker, Home Care and Hospice Association of NJ, Women’s Political Caucus of NJ, and most recently in the Dominican Republic with a local nonprofit working with youth in marginalized communities, and as a volunteer/interpreter through the Rutgers Law School Immigrant Rights and Child Advocacy Clinic. I am constantly seeking meaningful roles where I can enact change, and for these reasons, I am serving as a Pearson Student Advisory Board Member. On this capacity, I play a vital role in improving initiatives and refining the educational technology. I act as a strong student voice in the conversation that helps to shape the way students learn. Working with the Pearson Student Advisory Board has provided me the opportunity to implement change that impacts college classrooms across the country and that affects student success. I’ve come to understand that with every opportunity comes the responsibility to pay-it-forward. And this is what I strive to do in every role that I play, as a student, volunteer, and most importantly as a social change agent. I strive to bring dedication, commitment, and value to every community that I work alongside with. Public service is my passion, my life, and my long-term commitment, and for these reasons, I am constantly challenging myself to better understand the world we live in and engage with individuals from different backgrounds, and stories to tell.

Without a doubt, participating in the International Leadership Exchange transformed my life! It sparked my interest in travel, diversity, and also inspired me to seek “answers” and question issues throughout my undergraduate studies, and in several nontraditional classrooms. In this pursuit, I landed in Mexico, Italy, Louisiana and the Dominican Republic. I’ve worn different hats: student, volunteer, instructor, intern, mentor, and explorer while navigating through multidimensional and unfamiliar spaces. My compass has been “love of learning is the guide of life”, and has guided me through these experiences to acquire an appreciation of the world through a social justice lens. In pursuing my passions of service and learning, I’ve acquired an appreciation for diversity in all its forms, and also a thirst for knowledge. I am committed not only to academic achievement but most importantly to public service and the public good. Upon graduation this May, I will pursue an MPA to further blend my love of and commitment to social justice issues, and I hope to start a nonprofit organization in the Dominican Republic to enable youth to further their education.I feel committed to acting as a social change agent through activism, and volunteerism. ILE provided me with the opportunity to engage in meaningful conversations with students, professors, and practitioners who bring a unique perspective to the table. I’ve come to learn that despite our different backgrounds we are united through the human experience and that we can achieve more when we take the time to listen.

I’ve also come to understand the importance of collaborative practices and reaching compromise. And I would like to continue to step up to the place, now more than ever to serve and advocate on behalf of the most vulnerable and marginalized members of our community. The current political climate has taught me the importance of stepping up to the plate and seeking opportunities to be a part of this change. I know that the journey won’t be easy, but it will be worth it. My experience in Tanzania and ILE hold a very special place in my heart, and I will always be grateful for this life-changing experience. It provided me with the key to a new world, and with the opportunity to continue to enact a social change.

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