Hello, my name is Elizabeth, and I am currently a Medical Assisting student at Plaza in my last semester. I recently participated as a roundtable panelist representing Plaza College at the National Honor Society Convention for Sigma Kappa Delta. Being recognized for this incredible opportunity meant so much to me that words cannot express how grateful I am. My time in Denver was incredible. Meeting so many different students from colleges across the country, who were so intelligent and motivated, demonstrated that this is not where I stop, but where I begin. When I first arrived in Denver, I only had a short time before I had to present. I am grateful to the two wonderful ladies who accompanied me, Director Cohn and Dean Krampf. Both staff members took the time to give me the strength and encouragement I needed to overcome my public speaking fears. This enabled me to deliver my speech professionally. It was a surreal experience to be seated next to the other winners at the table and hear their stories.
My time in Denver was brief, but I was able to make many memories that I will cherish for the rest of my life. From the time I was dropped off at the airport, boarded the plane, and arrived at the hotel, all I could think about was what if I hadn’t listened to those who pushed me to write that essay? There is so much to say about this experience, but I’d like to highlight a few key points. My first day there, I gave a public speech, and everyone was amazed by my story. It meant a lot to have people approach me and say, “Wow, that was inspiring.” The SKD Meet and Greet took place later that evening at a restaurant adjacent to the hotel, where all the conference participants who had won various awards convened. Each table was given the opportunity to participate in a game called Mad Libs. We had six people at our table competing against ten other teams, and we won the game! Each member of our team was gifted a t-shirt and society accessories. After that event, we returned to the hotel lobby and recapped the day on velvet couches in front of a gas-lit fireplace. Taking in the scenery I remember thinking, “I can’t believe I’m here.” The next day was jam-packed with activities, from waking up and getting coffee, to the SKD Award Ceremony, site seeing, and dinner. The award ceremony was set up like a wedding. Hearing my name called and receiving the panelist award was where it really hit home for me. When I say home, it felt like the cards that were dealt to me in life finally aligned and I was on the right track. My perspective on all of my previous challenges simply vanished because if I could do this, what else could I do? I also attended Ms. Cohn’s presentation, and between her receiving her Five Year Advisor Award with me at the ceremony, and her presentation at her panel, I hope to be as successful and wise as she is. Another favorite part of the trip was seeing the city sights of downtown Denver, because I rarely have the opportunity to travel.
I encourage students who are current SKD members or those who want to join, to never doubt themselves. If you have someone telling you to go for it, go for it! Never pass up an opportunity because you are afraid; after all, what do you have to lose? You can learn a lot by looking at what it has done for me. As a reminder to students, I was never good at writing; it took practice, but I now love writing. Especially now that I’ve received this recognition. Strive for the stars, put in your all, and never give up on anything you want to achieve. Believe in yourself as much as others do. You can overcome any barrier and keep going, never stop!
