My journey to Albania has already been full of adventure, new experiences, and unexpected opportunities. From the moment I boarded the plane, with 10-foot drops through turbulent clouds, it was clear this trip would be anything but ordinary. I landed not only in a new country but also in a season of leadership and learning that looks nothing like anything I have known before.

What surprised me most was how naturally I adapted. Meeting dozens of new faces, preparing to spend a year with them, and adjusting to life halfway across the world could have been overwhelming. Instead, I felt energized. The excitement outweighed the nerves, and friendships formed quickly and easily.

After arriving, we drove three hours to Pogradec for in-country training. There we met Seth and my mentor, Mark Almand. Those first days came with a challenge: sun poisoning. Even that was softened by prayer, laughter, and good food. Once I recovered, our team dove into exploring: jumping off piers, eating pizza, crossing into Macedonia, and soaking in the breathtaking views of Lake Ohrid with its surrounding mountains. I also learned a quick but memorable lesson: always wear sunscreen and the sun hat Mark gave me.

Training itself was both practical and inspiring. While some AI sessions repeated tools I already knew well, the larger vision behind them struck me. The program creates a safe environment to experiment, fail, and learn. Seth’s school equips us with resources not just to dream but to build, whether businesses, organizations, or bold new projects. Already, my group is working on drafting a public interest pact aimed at strengthening U.S. federal laws against sex trafficking. It is a massive goal, but with access to mentors, research tools, and even connections to charitable leaders and congressional staff, it feels within reach.

Beyond the serious work, life here is vibrant. Our team is already organizing a volleyball tournament, proof that competence and creativity can make space for fun as well. These first weeks have been a mix of hard lessons, shared laughter, deep conversations, and breathtaking landscapes, and they are just the beginning.