On Friday, March 4, Kira O'Neil '22 and her father, Scott O'Neil P'22 '25, spoke with Global Studies students about their volunteer work in Mozambique during the summer of 2021. Mr. O'Neil began their presentation with some thoughts on gratitude, asking every student to send a text to their mother (or other important person in their lives) with a message of love and thanks. Gratitude was a theme that wove through their whole discussion, and was listed as one of the main rewards they gained from their service. 

Detailing their trip to Africa, beginning with 48 hours in the airport through successfully helping to build part of a new school, the O'Neils broke down their story into lessons they learned throughout the experience, including "Expect the Unexpected" and "Recognize that Inequity Exists Everywhere," among others. They spoke about the perspective that traveling abroad offers, the importance of taking action when things go wrong, and how individual choices can have a global impact. Touched by the joy and graciousness of the people they met in Mozambique, the O'Neils both emphasized the appreciation they gained from their travels, saying they returned home truly thankful for their experiences and opportunities. It is wonderful to see members of the Pennington community serving others around the world and inspiring their peers to do the same!