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July 16th, 2021
This July, I had the incredible opportunity to work in Logrono, Spain, and collaborate with the ShootingPro Basketball Camp (www.campusdebaloncesto.org). I worked with some of the best adolescent basketball players, focusing on their lives beyond sports.
Initially, the idea of going to Spain was met with resistance on my part. I wasn't sure if I was ready to launch I&I's STEAMA Academy there, especially in a non-English speaking country. However, a dear friend and colleague, Brad Branson, reminded me of the positive mindset that I teach in the STEAMA program. He encouraged me to believe in myself, just as I encourage my students to believe in themselves.
I wish I could say that my trip was smooth sailing, but that wouldn't be an accurate representation of the journey towards chasing one's dreams. Many nights, I found myself shedding tears because of my lack of Spanish proficiency and the disparity between my expectations and reality. I had to redo all the materials I had brought, translating them from English to Castilian Spanish. Despite these challenges, my experience in Logrono taught me valuable lessons:
Embrace Opportunities: Never shy away from an opportunity, even if it seems daunting at first.
Problem-Solving: When faced with challenges, focus on finding solutions rather than getting discouraged.
Community Support: Don't fear reaching out to others; people are often willing to help you on your journey.
Pursue Passion: Pursue what you love, because your passion will shine through even in the face of language barriers and obstacles.
Looking back, I wouldn't change a thing about my experiences in Logrono. This journey has helped me evolve as an educator, a leader, and as a human being. It has also brought recognition to I&I. We received positive feedback from both students and parents, and as a result, we've been invited to return next summer to introduce the STEAMA Academy to multiple camps and summer schools.
If there's one thing I can impart to you after this transformative experience, it's this: Never let fear hold you back from trying. Embrace challenges, grow from them, and continue pursuing your dreams with unwavering determination.
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