Melanie Lai Wai ‘16

Melanie Lai Wai

Duke University, Durham, NC
Master in Statistical Science

During my time with the Vassar Haiti Project (VHP), I had the privilege to meet people whom I may never have crossed paths with in other settings. What brought us together was the idea of making a difference, however big or small, in a shared community. Through these relationships, I learned about the importance of communication, leadership, and humility. I was able to develop self-confidence, as well as an awareness of the world around me that was far beyond my initial beliefs. VHP prompted me to think deeply about the meaning behind my work and its impact. There is no organization quite like VHP on Vassar’s campus, or possibly on any other campus, for that matter. The skills that I acquired as a VHP member continue to inspire and inform my daily life as I navigate through graduate school, and I deeply treasure my experience as a student volunteer.