The ACE in India program gives me the opportunity to step out of my comfort zone by immersing myself in a completely new culture. I’m excited to get to know local children in New Delhi, have a rewarding experience, and leave a positive impact on the community.”
As part of the ACE in India program, Meagan will serve as a coaching assistant for sports activities, teach English as a second language courses, and promote computer literacy initiatives for youth at a community center in Dakshinpuri, New Delhi.
Meagan’s past experiences with service include participation in the First-Year Advisory Counselor (FAC) program, membership in the Collegiate Athlete Pre-Medical Experience program, and participation in the Sophomore Outdoor Leadership Experience.
Dear Future #ACEathletes,
- Best advice for bringing ACE back to campus: I took a class called Global Health Systems when I got back to campus that explored health systems around the world and the ways culture impacts health. It was interesting to use my experiences inIndia to compare health determinants in New Delhi to health determinants here in Durham.
- Best advice for bringing ACE back to your team: We had a team meeting where everyone who participated in ACE shared their experience with the team. Our coach was a big promoter of the program because it allowed us to have an abroad service experience while also allowing us to keep our training up. Participating in ACE made me more grateful of the opportunity I have as a woman to compete in my sport at a high level.
- Best advice for staying in touch: I stay in touch with my ACE group members through social media, getting to see them around campus and at ACE meetings.
- Reasons for staying involved: I decided to stay involved with the ACE program because I think it’s an incredible program that will only improve with the help of the athletes who went through it. I think it’s a really special opportunity that we get to have and I want student-athletes to get the most out of their experience. This program has allowed me to immerse myself in a new culture, something I had never done before. I learned to be flexible and appreciate a culture different from my own.
- Tips for documenting your experience: I wrote in my journal everyday in India so I wouldn’t forget the little details. I also took a lot of pictures and printed out my favorites. I do wish I had taken more videos because the hustle and bustle of India is hard to describe and the noise is an integral part of that, which can’t be captured in just a photo.