CEW Changed my Life in a Week
By Isidora Stefanoska (YES 2021-2022, North Macedonia, placed by CIEE in Kansas City, MO)
I used to laugh at people that said that their life changed in a day or in a week. Well, jokes on me, my life did change in a week. This week also happens to be my most memorable week during my stay in the US. By now you’re probably wondering what happened during this week. Civic Education Workshop or CEW happened.
Civic Education Workshop is a week-long project funded by the Department of State that gives the opportunity to YES and FLEX students to visit the unique capital, Washington D.C., and learn about civic engagement if they get selected for this impactful program.
The main objective was to teach us about diplomacy, being an active citizen, and to empower us to take initiative in our communities. This was done through numerous seminars with diplomats, representatives from the Department of State, and quite a few debates and discussions. I share fond memories with the other exchange students of going to museums, visiting George Washington’s house, going to an NBA game, and learning about potent people from American history. What we learned was not just information stored in the cells of our brains, inspired by the things that we were learning and seeing each exchange student was given the responsibility of creating a project to improve their local communities. A testimony to the impact of this week are all the projects that are being implemented in multitudinous communities by CEW alumni all throughout the world.
The workshop taught us all of that and so much more. I was shown once more that love sees no boundaries and I felt the beauty in understanding and loving a person that came from a different country and grew up being influenced by a distinct culture. Furthermore, I was reminded that there are no limits to what one is capable of as long as there is the light of passion and determination in succeeding as well as the zeal to learn. I experienced CEW so I could tell you, dear reader, that you are destined for great things and that you should always lead with love and understanding!
All the things that happen to us won’t change us or show us new ways to look at life if we don’t let them. I thank you, Department of State, Mr. Stewarts, and all the wonderful minds that profoundly opened my eyes to seeing life through multiple lenses engraved with love!