My name is Alyssa Benson (the ginger in the group photo), and I am from Antigonish, Nova Scotia, Canada. You guys who are from the south are so lucky! It is currently storming as I write this. I am in my third year of university, but I just switched from a Biology major into Math. I am 20 years old, and will turn 21 about two weeks after we arrive in New Zealand! 

Here on campus I am so blessed, although it is a public university we have built a strong Christian Community, that is truly there for each other always, meeting for prayer Bible studies and even big group dinners throughout the week. God has truly blessed me by providing it for me, helping me to grow as a Christian and keeping me accountable to continue in this growth.

When I am not with this fabulous group of individuals, I am either working in a clothing store, or doing school work. My life is pretty scheduled, but it is good at the same time. 

Now for some more important things: 

• I hate carrots
• I love potatoes--give meat and potatoes and I am set for life
• I can't eat gluten or dairy-- just found this out about 2 years ago, so it has been a difficult switch, playing with different alternatives and trying to find food that I can eat (that I actually like)
• I am likely one of the clumsiest people you will ever meet-- There can be one object in a room and I will bump into it, trip on it, or knock it over.
• I am pretty easygoing, and laugh at just about everything.
• Although I am Canadian, I did live in NC and SC when I was a kid.
• I also hate prime numbers, strange I know, but I hate them. I like any # under 10, even and multiples of 5's.

So now you are likely wondering,"Okay who is this strange ginger Canadian, and why did God put her on my New Zealand trip with me?"

        For awhile now God has been really putting it on my heart that I need to branch out, and I need to help others and share the gospel! So after talking/praying with my cousin, I decided to apply for a trip. Now where does the ginger part fit into New Zealand-- being as fair skinned as I am, the best decision was to go to a place where it wouldn't be overly hot in the months where I would be there, so New Zealand it was! Plus the type of ministry definitely suits my personality! I love meeting people where they are at and just talking to them and praying with them. I have never been on a missions trip, but God has been equipping me right here on this very campus, getting to know the people who are here, praying with them, and being there for them. I am so excited for this trip, but nervous at the same time. Nervous about raising support, but trusting God and His people will be faithful!! Excited to see lives changed (including my own) as the Holy Spirit works through us!