Jackie Winkler

Being involved in habitat for humanity has been such a great experience so far.

Coming to Michigan State University, I felt like a fish out of water. I come from Chicago, the windy city, place of skyscrapers and flat plains. I was so excited to start new, away from the hustle and bustle of city living and a break from the people who I have know my whole entire life. The tried many things when I came here. Not knowing a sole when I came here, the vulnerable feeling made me question me being here. Against my better judgement, I rushed for sorority. The experience was absolutely horrible, and the stress was all too much. Needless to say, it didn't work out. The next downfall came when I tried out for the club tennis team. I played throughout high school and it was the biggest passion of mine that I could not ever imagine it not being in my life. I didnt make the team. I cried for hours and felt so depressed and miserable that I didnt even know what to think of next. I though getting involved was easy-thats what everyone said.

I told myself that I would try one more time. i went to the Habitat for Humanity meeting, and was hooked. They talked about how they were planning on a spring break trip for the spring, and everyone there wanted to help people. I found myself in a place where I was actually comfortable for the first time being at this University. Since then I have been helping out locally in East Lansing with builds and doing other menial jobs like collecting cans, handing out flyers, or just simply talking to other. This is bringing me fantastic oportunies and great friends.

I have found that making other people happy is really what makes you happy. The secret to a fulfilled life is sharing it with others. Get involved, enjoy my Tumblr informational page on Habitat and make a difference!