Building a New Home Through Service

It has been a busy month! Starting at Vanderbilt has been overwhelming at times, but also incredibly exciting, and I already have so many highlights to share.

Some of my favorite moments so far have been the simplest ones. I have spent several nights baking with people in my dorm, studying over homemade banana bread, and getting to know people from all over the world. I am also beginning to find new ways to get involved, both on campus and in the greater Nashville community. Moving somewhere completely new has reminded me how quickly a place can begin to feel like home when you find ways to connect with the people around you.

Recently, I volunteered as a buddy at the Tri My Best Triathlon, an adaptive swim, bike, and run event for kids with disabilities. I absolutely loved working with my team of elementary school students and was so impressed by their determination. Crossing the finish line together was easily one of the highlights of my first few weeks in Nashville.

The experience also reminded me of something I have learned through Give A Cake Bakery: community can be built in so many different ways. At Give A Cake, we bring people together through baking and a shared desire to give back. At the triathlon, it was through sports, encouragement, and a shared goal. The activity may have been different, but the idea was the same. When people come together around something they care about and use that passion to support others, meaningful connections form.

As I continue settling into Vanderbilt and Nashville, I am excited to keep finding those connections. Give A Cake has shown me that service is not only about what you give to a community. It is also one of the most powerful ways to become part of one.

With gratitude,

Julia Conroy, Founder

Give a Cake Bakery