Reflecting on the Past, Alayna Looks Forward to Making an Impact in the Region

The tree line blurred as her eyes became unfocused. Shaking her head, she glanced back at her computer. She had been reflecting on her hometown: South Bend, IN.

She wondered what her past self would think of where she had landed. Her past self had thought she would be a professor considering her degrees from Bethel University (IN) were in Biblical Studies and Philosophy.

Her subconscious, however, knew she wanted more out of life than only academia; with her passion for community, solving problems, and making connections, she couldn’t stay in the library her whole life.

Blinking, she returned her attention to her screen. She’d been asked to spearhead the planning and execution for a learning pilgrimage for South Bend. The event had been inspired by her trip to Israel/Palestine the previous November. There, she spent nearly 10 days learning from individuals and organizations on the state of the conflict in the region.

She wanted to make some headway on the planning process of “Experience South Bend”. Hunching over, she began to read through the article in front of her. Subconsciously, she hoped that she would be able to do this kind of work all the time. The kind of work that demonstrates the resilience of communities, brings people together, inspires strength and promotes peace, prosperity and equity for all.

Briiinnnngggg, Brriinnggg. She jumped, hesitantly holding the phone to her ear,

“Hello?”

“Hello, is this Alayna?”

“Yes…”

“Hi, I’m calling to offer you the role of Innovation Fellow with enFocus!”

“I–wow–thank you! Yes! Wow, thank—thank you so much…”

This was it!

This was the call she’d been waiting for; not only would she be able to work on meaningful projects to strengthen the city she loved, but it would be with a team of people seeking to bring innovation and talent to the region.

Though most of the previous week had been spent preparing for this job, she hadn’t gotten her hopes up about the opportunity..

The phone clicked as the call ended and she found herself sliding down onto the floor, voices of excitement and encouragement from her family surrounded her. All she felt was gratitude for the opportunity to offer her skills in creative and strategic thinking, collaboration, problem-solving and passion. She looked forward to making the world–even if it is only a small fraction of the world–a little bit stronger, resilient, and equitable.

Now she would have time to book that skydiving experience she had been hoping to have before 30.