So far this summer I have been kicked in the face, spit on, threatened, and cursed at, but to be honest, I wouldn't change it for the world. Working at Wediko has taught me many things about myself, including how fortunate I am to be raised the way I was. Although the work is difficult at times, it has been extremely rewarding. I can see that most of the kids in my group have made great progress and their lives will be changed very positively. I have already heard many parents thank us for the changes they see within their children. I am working as a canoe staff when I am not working with my own cabin group, which contains boys ages 12-14. It has been great taking all of the groups out to the islands around Black Pond and jumping out into the water from time to time. I think its pretty cool that I get to meet every kid on the setting and spend quality time with them.  I truly cannot wait to tell all of you in person my experiences here at this internship.

As far as soccer goes, I am very excited and anxious for the upcoming season.  I have been running in the mornings and getting some touches on the ball whenever I can. Because our group was so difficult we actually had to pull another staff from another group to help us, but it turned out to be very beneficial because he is great with kids and plays soccer for his college. In the past couple of weeks we have had head juggling contests and have been playing keep away with the kids before we transition to certain activities. A few of the kids how shown an interest in the sport and will hopefully play when they go back home. Although I love this job very much, I cannot wait to get back to Wabash, start working hard for soccer, and begin my studies again. I hope you are all ready to beat Depauw!  

Sincerely, 

Blaken Wamsley, '08