When did you decide to serve a mission?
I’ve always wanted to and planned on serving a mission ever since I can remember! Last year, I applied and got accepted to teach English at a school in India, near the Himalayas. I planned to teach abroad in the Fall 2026 semester and serve my mission immediately following that, after turning 19. Just 4 days after I got accepted to my program, I received the news that girls could now serve missions at 18! I was SO SO excited! I immediately texted my bishop to open my missionary portal and cancelled my teaching program. I could not be more excited to serve!
What was your motivation to turn in your papers at this time?
My plan has always been to turn them in and leave as soon as circumstances would permit! I put my availability date as July 15th, hoping to work, save money, and spend some time with my family, while preparing to serve.
When you opened your call, what was your first thought after finding out where you were assigned?
I was super surprised!! I never expected to be called to Brazil, and it was never really on my radar! I took some Spanish classes in High School, so I thought that if I got called to South America, it would probably be somewhere Spanish-speaking. But I was SO incredibly excited about my mission assignment, even though it was unexpected. I immediately felt a love for Brazilian people and culture! I know that my mission call to the Brazil Guarulhos mission is truly a call from Heavenly Father! I could not be more excited to serve Him and His children!
What are you most nervous for? What are you most excited for?
I think that I’m mostly nervous about learning the Portuguese language and being able to bear my testimony and teach, using it!
I’m mostly excited to immerse myself in the Brazilian culture, meet new people, try new foods, and increase my learning and testimony of the Savior! I’m MOST excited to see the gospel bring so much JOY into the lives of others and to help them get to know the gospel and Savior of truth, peace, and lasting happiness.