Here we go....

Who am I?

My name is Ashley Dial, and I will be graduating in May from North Georgia with a degree in Early Childhood and Special Education. I have always had a passion for working with children but didn’t take the traditional route to become a teacher. Right out of high school, I had the intention of becoming an engineer, but the Lord had other plans for me. After three semesters, it became clear that engineering was not what I was supposed to be doing with my life. At that point, I made the decision to transfer and become a teacher. It is one of the best decisions I have ever made, and there is not one doubt in my mind that this is what I am supposed to be doing with my life. I genuinely love going to the elementary school each and every day and cannot wait to be able to do this for the rest of my life!

Why this trip?

I initially heard about the trip this past fall and was immediately excited about the possibility of going to Nicaragua to teach! I was willing to do pretty much anything to ensure that I was able to go on this trip…even enroll in grad school early! When I finally found out I could go without jumping through hoops, I realized that this was meant to be and I needed to take this opportunity and run with it! I mean, when will I have the opportunity to travel abroad with such an amazing group for two weeks ever again?!?

Now that you know how much I really want to go, you must be asking, “But why?” Like I said in my introduction, I have always had a passion for working with children and spend most of my time outside of school volunteering or working with children. Also, I have always wanted to go on a mission trip, but the logistics just never worked out. When presented with this trip, it immediately clicked that this was what I needed to do. I would be able to minister and share God’s love by using the talents that He has given me. After this realization, it became evident that this was the perfect opportunity to take a leap of faith and minister abroad.

What am I looking forward to?

I honestly cannot wait to see the children and spend time getting to know them. After all, I did become a teacher because of my love for kids. I know that my life will be forever changed after meeting and spending time with these children, and my hope is that I make at least a small impact on their lives as well! I am also excited for this unique opportunity to use my God-given talents to serve my Lord and Savior! It is such a blessing to be given the chance to serve the Lord in this way! In addition, I am excited about seeing a new country and being immersed in a new culture.

Ashley