During spring break in March 2017, I traveled to Fort Hood, Texas, as a Buck-I-Serv participant. While I figured it would be a rewarding experience because the objective was to serve the military community of Central Texas, I didn’t realize how much this trip would impact me. In addition to the satisfaction I felt from helping children and those who have served our country, I left with new friendships, development of strengths, and most importantly, a desire to get involved with community service wherever I am living. I headed off to Texas with nine people I didn’t know and we lived and served with an additional 15 people. Being thrown into this environment forced me to step out of my comfort zone, but as a result, I left with new friendships I plan to continue at Ohio State, and was able to enhance strengths and improve weaknesses. Leadership has always been a strength of mine and I was able to lead my groups at times. My independence was revealed in that I chose not to go home during my only opportunity this semester, and I was completely comfortable with knowing no one prior to the trip. Working with children was always a dreaded task of mine, but I improved my communication skills through volunteering and believe it will be something I look forward to in the future. After this service trip, I realized how even the smallest acts of community service can impact lives forever and this has motivated me to find ways to volunteer in both the Columbus area and my hometown in Pennsylvania. I am fortunate to have the privileges I do, and I want to be able to give people the opportunities and experiences I have had.