Time to Make a Change

I have always believed that life lies not in living but in liking. I love to do some adventurous things and eager to know new places and new people with whom I can share their experiences and knowledge. But I never had the opportunity to see the wider world before I join this program, so that’s why I attend the international volunteer program. It is time to make a change, if not now, when? 

My name is Chiara. I am a junior student from Shenzhen University, China. At present I’m studying at Shenzhen University, majoring in Chemistry. A few weeks ago I became an international volunteer for Asperger Works. In this month, I felt that I was like a sponge and kept absorbing knowledge and growing. I always say I am a lucky girl, because I’m so lucky to be part of Asperger Works, I enjoy and love everything here, including what I do and who I know here.

Actually, before I came to America, I was a little nervous and worried. I’m afraid that I can’t make myself understood when I speak English and that I won’t fit in well in the work environment. But it wasn’t until I actually got to the United States that I realized that these fears were misplaced. Eva gave me a big hug as soon as we met, which made me feel very warm, just like the sun in winter. 

On the first day I came here, I found what I want to do. I wanted to design a poster for our organization and a flyer for the dinner of hope. When I told Eva my ideas, she encouraged me to do what I want to do and told me what I do is valuable. It made me feel confident and more goal-oriented.

Then I started my four-week volunteer program. We are like a family, working together, having lunch together and talking together. I really enjoy the atmosphere here, and I am grateful to meet Eva, Adam, Daniel, Lisa, Lily and Kenny. Especially Eva, she often tells me some truth, and shares her experience and her view on something with me. 

These are my selfies with Eva and Adam. Aren’t they cute?

This is the photo of Asperger Works, from left to right are: Kenny, Eva, Daniel, Lisa, Chiara (me), Lily and Adam. Eva is hanging this picture on the wall.

Daniel and I are at Harvard University

Morning in New York

We are at the Lawrence Historical Museum

Thanks to Eva, I had this special experience — volunteer at a naturalization ceremony.

I’m glad that I chose to participate in this program, which I think it’s a great opportunity to experience the American culture and see how the world looks like outside China. Most importantly, I met a lot of great people here, we had a great time. This is the most memorable time in my life, I think I will never forget. As the saying goes: a bosom friend afar brings distant land near. I believe we will meet again!