Zoe Chertov

"I first learned of Global Student Embassy when it was still a plan yet to be brought to life by the Oshun brothers. Their presentations and projects intrigued me, and the prospect of traveling to South America excited me, so I began attending weekly meetings. I helped plan the fund raising that was needed to bring the first group of students to visit us in Sonoma County, and worked hard at the many events we hosted in our efforts to raise adequate funds. In January, I hosted Fiama, a student from Argentina, and participated in the many community service projects and culture-sharing activities. After hosting Fiama, I made the final decision to travel to her community in Santa Fe AR that coming summer. I planned and executed many car washes in order to fund my trip, and come June, I was ready to go. I spent 7 weeks with our group in Argentina, 4 with my host family, and 3 traveling and wrapping up. I can honestly say those were the richest weeks of my life thus far. I was able to expand my cultural horizon, I developed a life-long bond with my family in Argentina and the students I traveled with. Upon my return home, I truly felt that I had played a part in making the world better, and it has brought me to the realization that I want to do more. My experience with GSE has not only greatly improved my leadership and team work skills, it has helped me learn more about myself and about my goals in life. "

Photo shows Zoe (right) with host sister Fiama. They both stayed with each other's families in Argentina and California.