By Maria Clara Sandoval Durski
“The project is never finished.”
At first, this phrase might sound disheartening. But after this summer, I have come to see it as something much more hopeful. To me, it represents care. It reflects the idea that if we truly care about our communities, local or global, we will never stop working for their betterment. When it comes to community engagement and social impact, finishing isn’t the goal. It’s about sustained commitment and evolution.
As my summer comes to a close, I feel deeply grateful. The experience of working at the
Council of Europe taught me more than I could have imagined. I was not just a passive
observer. I contributed to substantial work in an area that deeply interests me. I’m especially proud of my work related to international law. Despite only having taken one undergraduate course in the subject, I was still able to contribute to legal research assignments with confidence and skill. I proved to myself that I can contribute meaningfully in conversations that previously felt intimidating.
Looking ahead, I want to keep listening intentionally. One of the best parts of this summer was the opportunity to speak with people from different backgrounds and perspectives. I want to carry that practice with me, to keep seeking out conversations that challenge and expand my understanding of my community.
I am excited by the opportunities waiting for me as a senior returning to FSU this fall. I will be applying to law school, and this summer experience will help guide my personal statements and clarify my motivation for pursuing that path. I am also looking forward to returning to my work at the Center for the Advancement of Human Rights and the Career Center, where I can continue contributing to my local community with a new sense of purpose and global context. This summer reminded me that social impact work does not end with one project, internship, or semester. The work is never finished, and that is exactly why it matters so much.
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