Armando Royal '15 Recruiting Profile

I have always enjoyed the wonderful game of soccer growing up. It has created new friendships from around the world that I will never forget. In 2010, I went on my first mission trip to Tijuana Mexico to build houses for less fortunate families. On my work site being able to speak Spanish was a huge benefit because I could translate and connect with the family. During the trip, my friends and I met with group of children that live around the community.  We passed the soccer ball, had laughs and made jokes. The joy that I could see in the children's faces was priceless. I left the soccer ball with them every day, then on our last day in Mexico we all said are goodbyes. I went aboard the bus to leave and from the outside window I could see the kids calling me.  They wanted to return the soccer ball I gave them, but I said no, it is for you.  My experience in Mexico led me to return for four consecutive spring breaks to build houses for disadvantaged families.