Why did you go on the World Race?
I wanted to go to college, but a part of me wanted to wait to attend college for a little bit. I love missions, traveling, teaching, and getting to know people so the World Race seemed like a good fit for me. I heard about it and knew that it was exactly what God was calling me to do. I’m glad I listened to Him because the WR has been such a life-changing experience.
Would you do the World Race again?
The WR has been great so far and I love it, but it is harder than I thought it would be. I thought I wouldn’t miss home and its comforts as much as I do. I would have to pray and feel led by God to do the WR again. I am very grateful that I have been able to go on the WR; I have learned so much about myself, God, and about other people around the world.
What has been your favorite country and ministry so far?
Guatemala hands down has been my favorite country so far. To be honest, it was the country that I was the least excited about, but God definitely changed my perspective on that country. I have such a love for the people, the culture, the language, and the food of Guatemala now.
My favorite ministry would be teaching in Guatemala or Myanmar. It’s hard to choose. In both of these countries, I taught/am teaching in a setting that’s not in a formal school. In Thailand, I taught at an actual school. When you teach at someone’s house, you get to develop deeper relationships with the parents and kids. They really open up and act like themselves when they aren’t in a structured school setting. When I taught at the school in Thailand, I pretty much only taught English and it was more difficult to form relationships with the kids since they were in classes almost the whole day.
How many more months are you on the field?
About 4 months!
Are you more excited or nervous to come home?
Both honestly. I can’t wait to see my family and friends, but it is going to be so overwhelming and different compared to what I have been doing and living life like for the past nine months. See you in June, Raleigh!
How would you describe the race?
It’s the best thing I’ve ever done. It is an amazing, tough, and growing experience. There are hard days but then there are days that I hope I’ll remember forever. Each day is an adventure. You learn how to live in a small, tight knit community and have many opportunities to dig deeper in your relationship with Jesus. I would rate the race 10 out of 10!!!!
What would you pack/not pack?
Don’t pack a lot or what you think you will need for nine months because you give away or discard so much of your stuff and buy so many new things along the way. Also, a lot of gap year routes go to major cities and stay there for a few days so you can buy get things you need there. I buy a new towel and shampoo/conditioner at a grocery store every time I switch countries. Also, there is no need to pack a tent. It’s too heavy and you will most likely never need one. Bring a real pillow from home! You will definitely want something you love from home. Bring more than one journal too because you will most likely go through one very fast.
What do you miss about America the most?
Well, besides my family and friends, definitely the food and getting to drive. Getting to drive to Noodles and Company alone while jamming in the car sounds so nice right now… haha.
What is the most important thing I’ve learned so far?
The most important thing I’ve learned is the importance of trying to live my life to glorify Jesus. I am trying to read His Word and pray during the day so that the Holy Spirit can direct my path. How I treat others can direct them to or away from the love of Christ.
Biggest thing I’ve learned about myself?
I need to work on becoming more selfless and thankful. Before the race, I feel like I would go days without being thankful. After seeing the world and how people live, there is so much to be thankful for. I also am working on putting God and others ahead of myself, my comforts, and my likes.
Biggest thing I’ve learned about God?
I have learned how much He pursues me and how I need to put all my hope in Him. I shouldn’t put my hope in things that are of the world because they won’t satisfy me like God will. God will fill my heart’s desires.
Much love,
Nicole
