After graduation, Lambert has students going to so many different places: colleges around the country, trade schools and people heading straight to the workforce. Lambert senior Kenny Hayes is dedicating himself to a rather unique mission though, that focuses less on his own growth and more on helping others. After graduation, Hayes plans on heading to Utah for six months to prepare for his mission trip to the Republic of Congo as part of his church.
Hayes has been involved in community service through his church his whole life. Growing up in the Southeast,he’s especially helped with hurricane relief, traveling to different areas and helping out people struggling with the aftermath of destructive hurricanes through clearing trees. Through organized efforts such as these, he’s been able to develop a passion for community service. With this and being an active member of his community and his church, he’s always had the goal of going on a mission trip.
“I’ve wanted to go for a while and so I’ve tried to live my life in accordance with the standards that are going to be needed out there,” Hayes mentioned. “I’ve tried to live the gospel to the best of my ability, learn it to the best of my ability, so that when I go out there it’s not completely alien to me.”
Even though it might be difficult to step away from a comfort zone to pursue his dream, Hayes believes it will be worth it in more ways than one. Specifically, what he’ll be able to learn by living in a different environment.
“I’m most excited about the people,” Hayes emphasized. “I think being able to experience such a unique culture that isn’t really represented over here will be great.”
Hayes is definitely taking a big step to gain these experiences, which is something he believes is a skill necessary for life. He encourages people who may be debating whether they should take that big step or risk to “just start”.
“Going outside of your comfort zone is a skill and that’s something you kind of have to get used to,” Hayes said.
Hayes is planning on attending Davidson College in North Carolina after returning from his two-year long mission trip. His ability to step forward and try new things is admirable, and he stands as an exemplary role model for Longhorn students who want to grow personally through achieving their goals.
