If I could describe my experience with the Tribal Nations Tour, there would not be enough words to say how this trip truly impacted me. As a first-time freshman just finishing up the semester here at Arizona State University, I got in check with myself. Grades? Check. Finals? Check. Involvement on campus? Not check. After discovering my absence with the student environment on campus, I thought it would be a great opportunity for me to get involved with the culture and meet new people. Not long after, I found a position to be a mentor for one of the programs (INSPIRE) provided by the university. As soon as I completed my application, I was offered the position right away. With this being my first engagement with other American Indian students, not going to lie, I was anxious. However when completing the summer program as a Peer Mentor, I was comforted by the diversity that us students share that make ASU what it is. A month later, I was then invited to come along with other students on the Tribal Nations Tour. I could not deny the offer, after my positive experience with the previous program, I thought that this opportunity would allow me to connect with other students who may or may not have had similar interests.

The Tribal Nations Tour not only shaped my communication with other students but also gave me the chance to influence youth on further education. In the time I was on tour, I enjoyed exploring other American Indian communities that I have not visited before. This resulted in me getting in check with the uniqueness that each community had to offer for its own people. Since making multiple stops at different schools in various towns, getting the time to see and witness the youth who embrace us students as someone they look up to is motivating. For me, it made me regain my purpose as to why I made my choice to attend ASU. From hearing other stories from fellow TNT members to the developed team effort we built, I made new friends in a matter of time. The impact that TNT brings is inspiring, from this experience I made a promise to put myself out there. From my confidence being at an all time low, TNT changed my outlook to expand my academic career. I will take this trip as a memory and as stepping-stones that will help benefit me in years to come.
 

Before the Tribal Nations Tour 2019, I would hear amazing stories from friends and the staff here at the Office of American Indian Initiatives that went on the trip the year prior. So finally experiencing it for myself, I can say it was incredible. I am originally from Northern Arizona and having the privilege to visit the communities in Southwestern Arizona for the first time was an enlightening and powerful experience. On one hand, I was able to help fulfill TNT’s purpose of promoting higher education and engaging students of what to expect after high school. On the other hand, I was given the opportunity to learn about different environments and cultures. Most importantly, I had the chance to give back to various tribal communities by sharing my story of how I ended up at ASU.

My favorite part of contributing to TNT were the skits my group handled. I was able to break out my acting skills and make the crowd laugh. I believe everyone needs positivity in their life and sharing that with each of the kids was uplifting. In the beginning, I struggled the most with public speaking and still do. But, going with familiar faces on a week-long trip and making new friends along the way was the best way to tackle my anxiety. The whole tour brought tears, laughter, understanding, empowerment and lifelong connections. I hope one day all the kids we encountered along TNT; I make them proud. Overall, TNT was a humbling journey and I would recommend other natives to experience such a great program. Thanks to the TNT-ers of 2019!