The Greater Milwaukee Synod office wanted to hear more about her experience and share her story so that other young adults from our synod might be encouraged to participate in the future. Below are her answers to the corresponding questions:

• Q. How did you hear about YAGM as an opportunity?
  A: I first learned about YAGM through my pastor. At the time, I was working closely with people in hospice care as a massage therapist, and that experience sparked a desire to explore a deeper sense of service and accompaniment. I also love traveling and learning about different cultures, so YAGM felt like a natural fit.

• Q: What made you want to participate in the YAGM program?
  A: One of the things that attracted me most to YAGM was its emphasis on accompaniment. I appreciate that the program is not about going somewhere to “fix” people or tell them how to live, but rather about walking alongside others, learning from them, and building meaningful relationships. I was also drawn to YAGM because it is part of the ELCA and reflects values that are important to me.

• Q: What was the application and acceptance process like?
  A: The process was surprisingly straightforward. I submitted my application last summer and was invited to interview in March. After a few interviews and conversations, I was accepted into the program. Throughout the process, everyone was welcoming and supportive, and it felt like a good opportunity for discernment.

• Q: What are you most excited about for your trip to Cambodia?
  A: Cambodia is very different from anything I have experienced before, and I am looking forward to immersing myself in a new culture, building relationships, and gaining a broader perspective of the world.

• Q: What are some challenges you anticipate?
  A: I think the language barrier will be one of the biggest challenges for me. Since I have never lived in a country where I do not speak the language, I know there will be a learning curve. At the same time, I think it will be an opportunity for growth and connection.

• Q: In what ways has the YAGM program and leaders prepared you for your ministry trip?
  A: YAGM has already provided a great deal of preparation. I attended the orientation weekend in Chicago, where we learned about the history of the program, YAGM’s values, and our global partners. I have also had conversations with the country coordinator in Cambodia and several YAGM alumni, which has helped me better understand what to expect.

• Q: Have you ever traveled outside of the US before?
  A: No, this will be my first time traveling outside of the United States.

• Q: How was Cambodia decided as your destination?
  A: During the discernment process, we were able to rank our preferences and learn about the different country programs. I interviewed for both Cambodia and the United Kingdom. While I was interested in both opportunities, I found myself especially drawn to Cambodia. Ultimately, after prayer and discernment, I trusted that whichever placement I received would be where I was meant to be. When Cambodia was offered to me, I felt excited and confident about the opportunity.

• Q: What does it mean to you to live out your faith when integrating into a new society and culture?
  A: For me, living out my faith in a new culture means leading with humility, curiosity, and respect. I don’t see this experience as an opportunity to teach others that my way is the right way. Instead, I hope to listen, learn, build relationships, and accompany people in their communities. My faith teaches me that every person is created in God’s image, and I believe I can learn from the people I meet just as much as they may learn from me. I hope to remain grounded in my faith while being open to new perspectives, traditions, and ways of understanding the world.

• Q: Is there anything else you feel like sharing about this topic?
  A: I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to participate in YAGM. While I know there will be challenges and many unknowns, I am excited to step outside of my comfort zone, learn from others, and grow both personally and spiritually through this experience. I hope to approach this year with an open mind, a willingness to listen, and a commitment to building authentic relationships.