Meet Amethyst Kelly, Our 2017-2018 XPLOR Resident

XPLOR, sponsored by NBA - the National Benevolent Assn., is an opportunity for young adults to live together in community, grow in their faith, and explore a wide range of ministry, mission, and community service experiences. The Board of Central enthusiastically approved hosting a resident as a “congregation away from home” and also providing a ministry worksite opportunity as our Community Engagement Intern. Our XPLOR resident will be Amethyst Kelly. Here are some excerpts from her application where she introduces herself.
 
I am excited to embark on this journey! I decided to join the XPLOR program because I wanted to work at something different than school assignments. I would like to work with my hands, feet, and mind to better our world. I want to experience growth and discovery before returning to graduate school.
 
I am a Biosystems engineering graduate from Oklahoma State University with the option of environmental and natural resources. In my last year I tutored multiple math and Biosystems courses. My past work experiences include an internship at Georgia Pacific, volunteer positions at summer and mission camps, and an internship at Weddings of Tulsa.
 
I have a professional interest in engineering and problem solving. I am also interested in environmental protection and the stewardship of our planet. I really just have an interest in making the world a better place. I would enjoy working in many different justice areas. I would enjoy helping to provide clean water to those who do not have access to the necessary resource. I could work in renewable resources or teaching others about caring for resources properly. I would like to help people find expression in the arts, to help them have access to such a healing outlet. I could help teach about the responsible care of animals. I would like working in animal therapy to introduce the comfort of animals to those who could benefit from the experience. I would like to help feed people who go hungry due to lack of nutritional food or the inability to prepare it. Above all, I just want to love isolated people that need to be loved and feel special.
 
Among the growth opportunities in XPLOR, two stand out.  The work of Spiritual Discernment will be new to me as far as vocational discernment. I am serious about how my current skills can be used to make the world better including the planet as I am very eco-conscious. I wonder where my life is going when I get to the end of this tunnel; it could all be new. I expect this time will allow me to see some doors opening and some closing. Leadership Development excites me so much! I love being in leadership positions. My sorority has taught me a lot about leadership as sometimes there are all chiefs and no Indians. I have learned when to step up and take leadership and when to support others in their stepping up to lead.
 
My passions help make me who I am. I have a heart for all types of animals, especially cats. I like to volunteer at animal shelters. I have a passion for dance. Dance can be used to let loose and relax or to meditate and heal. I like to read. I am always up for a good mystery novel. I enjoy traveling and trying new things. I love to cook and I love to eat. That makes a good combination. I enjoy working in a team with other personality types. I can be a leader or a follower. I enjoy spending time with friends, family, and others who help me to see the good in life.
 
I look forward to this new experience!
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Sincerely,
Amethyst Kelly
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