Hey! I'm Melanie or Mel, whichever you prefer to call me. I grew up in a tiny town in between the Sacramento and Napa Valleys. Dad got a new job which caused my family and I to move to Indiana 6 years ago. I'm currently a sophomore at the University of Southern Indiatna located in Evansville. I'm studying Social Work in hopes of one day using it out on the mission field! I work at Chick Fil A.  I have an older brother Matthew, who is getting married 10 days after returning back to the States this summer! My mom is one of my best friends and Dad's pretty cool too! My parents are my support system and I'm blessed to have them. I spend my days avoiding homework, hanging out with my friends, and leading a small group.  My best friend lives 1300 miles away from me, but she's literally the best.  We met on a mission trip 3 years ago and hit it off. I love Jesus and absolutely can't wait to spend my summer sharing His love and hanging out with cute kids. A mission trip to Cluj, Romania and Passion 2011 completely wrecked my life for the best. I went on several stateside mission trips when I was in high school and to Cluj, Romania. I’m so excited to be a part of this team and go on this trip. I thrive off of traveling and culture. I’m extremely nervous about the language barrier because I only know a small amount of Spanish. Preparing for this trip has been crazy already, I’ve had things come up with school and trying to discern whether or not this is how God wanted me to spend my summer and it’s been absolutely amazing to see how He’s orchestrated all of this.  I’ve had plenty of people already give me a hard time about how I’m going to survive 2 months in another country, especially since I won’t be taking my straightener and am limited on what I can pack.  

 Random Facts about Me:

   I'm a lefty.

   I climbed Half Dome at Yosemite Nat'l Park this past summer with my family (16 miles in 14 hours).

   I swam competitively for 13 years (200 free, 100 free, and free relays).

   Besides swimming and soccer I hate all other sports.

   I've been to more than 35 states.

   I consider sleeping a hobby.

   I've been to 3 other countries: Romania, Hungary, and the Czech Republic.

   I grew up in a town that didn't have a stop light.

   I LOVE to travel.

   I don't like pancakes or waffles (I’m a picky eater, which will soon change).

   I've been to more state/nat'l parks than anyone I know (thanks Mom and Dad)

   I love authentic Mexican food

   I could survive in a pair of TOMS and sweat pants.

   I know how to skim board and skateboard.