Future Plans

My greatest goal for my future has always been to "help people", ever since I was a little girl. Specifically, I knew I wanted to be some sort of first responder. Changing my mind from wanting to be a police officer, to a doctor, to a nurse, and now being stuck between wanting to be a firefighter or a police officer. Mostly, these dreams come from my personal values within. That being said, much of the inspiration that I have for always wanting to help those around me comes from what I have been taught at my taekwondo studio by my master instructor, Grandmaster Matt Salisbury. 

I have always had a louder voice when it comes to important issues that matter to me and others, whether that means contemporary issues regarding equality, racism, and injustice, or even just on the soccer field when my team needs a little motivation. I began my leadership journey when I was invited to join the leadership team at my studio, at the age of 9. Being on the leadership team ultimately meant learning how to be a strong leader, not just in the studio teaching, but at school, in other sports, and in society. I began to help teach a taekwondo class every Friday, teaching young students the same skills that I had learned. The leadership team helped with toys-for-tots every year, providing kids with presents during the holiday times that otherwise would not receive one. We also held many charity events and bake sales to raise money for organizations, such as Team G, which helps support families financially that have kids with cancer. From joining the leadership team I not only became the instructor I am today, but I learned how to be a leader in every aspect of my life and fight for issues that matter to me.

Now, how has this influenced and prepared me for my future plans? The skills I have learned, perseverance, leadership, determination, and courage, have proven to me that no matter how challenging the road is going to be to achieve my career goals, I know I can do it and will never give up. My future dreams are not only to become a first responder, because, my martial arts journey has made me realize that I care about so much more too. I hope to become a public speaker advocating for equality, such as pay, between all races, genders, sexualities, backgrounds, etc. Additionally, raising money for families who cannot afford healthcare, food, school supplies, and all of the basic necessary things that all citizens should be provided and have access to. I would not feel confident enough to do this without the skills I have worked on and been taught throughout my years of training at my taekwondo studio. 

Therefore, martial arts has always been, and will forever be, a major part of who I have become and who I plan to be, and I will forever be grateful for my martial arts journey.