Amber Taylor – University of Missouri
Growing up, I looked up to people like Peter Benenson and Margaret Mead in awe. I wanted my life to emulate theirs in some way—I had no idea what I wanted to do, I just knew I wanted to make a difference in the lives of others somehow. But sometime during high school I somehow forgot how to talk to and connect with my peers. Confidence depleted and still questioning my future, I entered my freshman year at the University of Missouri-Columbia timidly and slightly lost.
When I heard about Southwestern Advantage, I was a little anxious. I could barely talk people at school, how could I possibly talk to over thirty new people, everyday? I was determined to change my own life, though, so I packed my bags and headed to out to sell books. At first, I cried a lot. And missed my comfort zone like crazy. But I very soon realized there is really no need to be nervous when your mind is on service. Every time I knocked on a new door and met a new family, I had the opportunity to impact their lives for the better. And that opportunity is what I desired all my life.
Day by day, my life slowly started changing. I was developing the confidence and self-esteem I lacked for too long. Thanks to my summer selling book, I discovered the person I could someday be. And by continuing to work with Southwestern Advantage, I have no doubt in my mind that is the person I will become.
