Hey there! I'm Melissa Casas a Criminal Justice major with a minor in Political Science and Spanish at Miami University Hamilton Regional Campus. Ever since I was young I knew the significance of education and the importance of passion and dedication when it comes to the things you love. As a first-generation Mexican-American student, I knew that I would have to work harder in certain circumstances to get the opportunities I wanted. I have always had a passion for justice and politics. But the law and politics aren't something that I am just passionate about it is something I live by. I have seen politics and law impact people in my personal life, it is something that impacts people both nationally and internationally. My study abroad trip will impact my education and career by allowing me to immerse myself in a different culture with my home language. By practicing and learning how to properly write, read, and speak Spanish I will be able to help people within my community and other communities when I start practicing law. I hope to shape laws and involve myself politically in a way that motivates younger generations who relate to me to love education and value it.