Hola, mi nombre is Karina Sanchez! I am a the short, shy girl that is slightly awkward. I am an optimistic person who is compassionate and sees the good in everyone. Random facts: 

>I eat an apple everyday

>I like the color purple (the color and the book)

>I have never driven a car

>I am 4"11 1/2 feet tall (yes that half counts)

> I can not stand worms, wasabi, coconut, and bone cracking

>I am a vegetarian

It is such an honor to have the opportunity to be part of the STARS LEAD program. If I had to pin point what intrigued me the most about the STARS LEAD program I would have to say that it was the fact that it provides individuals with the tools that they need to develop their leadership skill. Furthermore, the fact that the STARS LEAD program uses service learning to develop these leadership skills was the icing on a cake. What better way to learn about leadership skills than to practice them hands on.

I LOVED the first meeting for STARS! I am excited to start a new semester full of wonderful opportunities like the STARS LEAD program. I was glad that we did the ice breaker activity because it allowed us to get a glimpse of who we are as individuals. I am looking forward to getting to getting to know everyone and seeing how we all progress throughout the semester.

Coming up with one definition for the word, leader is difficult because there are so many components that make up a leader. From my experience I would define a leader as someone who can create a positive change for someone other than themselves.

There is one thing that I can think of right now that I want to get out of the STARS LEAD program, and that is to improve my public speaking skills. I have always been that timid soft spoken girl who keeps to herself. I was that person who dreaded public speaking; I would get really nervous and warm, my voice would crack as I stumbled across my words, while holding my paper with quivering hands. Throughout my life I have gained experiences which have benefited me, but I still have a lot of room for improvement.

On a final note, at the end of the STARS LEAD program I would like to look back on my experience and not have any regrets. I want to make the most of this program. I want to improve myself as an individual, and add to my life experiences and self-worth.