Volumes for Vietnam

When I think of someone who influenced me I do not think of those people who have moved me only to speak or to think as they do. I think of people who have moved me to act as they do.

Reading Leaving Microsoft to Change the World by John Wood has influenced me to do more than just think that I should follow my passion no matter the price as he gave up luxurious expatriate living to give opportunities to underprivileged children. It has made me believe that opportunities should belong to everyone, and that there are no limits to human innovation and accomplishment. These things John Wood has made me think and believe, but most importantly John Wood has inspired me to act.

As he chronicled and reflected on his journey into charity, I began mine. Brainstorming with the friend who recommended the book, we decided to build a library with Room to Read. I knew that if I wanted to reach my goal of 4,000 dollars to build a library in Vietnam, I would need to take chances. I knew that I would need to build a plan and follow through with it; I knew that I would need to work with people I had never met before to accomplish my goal, and I knew that I would need to work hard until the job was done.

First, I gathered a group of close friends to establish a plan of action. Intending to gather most of our funds from library and book store patrons, we approached libraries and local shops about setting up collection boxes. We were refused. Immediately, I realized that we would need guidance if we wanted to build our library. I determined that the most obvious place to go for advice would be the source of my influence.

I called Room to Read, John Wood’s charity, and acquired knowledge of several fundraising options and techniques. I set up a webpage with them for the fundraiser so that donors could donate instantly. Next, I planned events to raise money by donation, and set a deadline for the project. My friends and I approached the libraries a second time, and bargained for the right to advertise our fundraiser in their facilities. We spoke to teachers at our school in charge of our annual “Coin War” and convinced them to send the proceeds to our charity.

Being in the center of an organization bent on one singular goal is teaching me how to better build relationships with individuals and work with them to get things done. I’m learning to set goals and meet deadlines, and I’m learning to balance a busy schedule. Most importantly, I’m learning to take chances and be passionate about what I do, because if I am not passionate about what I do, then no one else will be either. Just as John Wood used his skills and his passion to change the world, I too will use my education and passion to change the world.