Hi Global Glimpsers,

My name is Jasmin McClendon and I’m one of your Global Glimpse Leaders. I am a proud graduate of Howard University and currently serve as a College Counselor at a high school in Queens. I have been a counselor for six years and love my job because I get to help students reach their full potential and follow their dreams.

Even though this is my first time working with Global Glimpse I am no stranger to traveling. When I was younger I didn’t have the opportunity to travel outside of the country due to financial hardships. With that said, I hope you realize how fortunate you are to have this international opportunity! As an adult, I’ve been making up for all the places I couldn’t go when I was younger. Some of the places I have visited include Italy, Puerto Rico, Hawaii, Dominican Republic, Trinidad, Costa Rica, Thailand, Cuba and Dubai this October. My favorite place of all was Thailand. There I was able to meditate with monks in sacred temples, eat delicious food and visit an Elephant Sanctuary and Tiger Kingdom. Each country I visit I am more enlightened. I enjoy viewing the world from other people’s perspectives and learning about different traditions and cultures. The world is a huge place and I want to experience as much of it as possible.  

A little bit about myself. I am very bubbly and energetic. I also laugh very loud. You’ll either love my laugh or hate it, so we’ll see 😀. I am very health conscious. I cook at home more than I eat out and I exercise at least four days a week. Although I am health conscious I still enjoy a few meals once in a while like Chick Fil A which is my favorite fast food restaurant. And trust me I will be trying the Ecuadorian Dishes for sure! I’m super competitive. I ran track growing up so that sense of “I want to win” never left me. I love game nights and games like ping pong, air hockey and uno. I also love playing and watching sports. I used to be a member of an adult kickball and volleyball league. Once a week I take Improv Classes in Manhattan. I enjoy performing improv and my goal is to have my own Improv Show. I love doing karaoke, even though I’m not the best singer. My favorite artists to perform are Beyonce and Bruno Mars. I love going to festivals and attending a few concerts a year. Most recently I attended Beyonce’s Renaissance World Tour. Lastly, I love to dance!

I could not be more excited to visit Ecuador with you. I am especially excited for Community Day. I am looking forward to interacting with native people, hearing their stories, and learning about their culture and traditions. I am happy I get to be a part of this life changing experience with you. I look forward to bonding with you and helping to create a sense of community with each other. I will be there to help everyone enjoy themselves, make an impact and get the most out of this experience! 

-Jasmin McClendon