June 2024 Archive

thought of the month

Education is not preparation for life; education is life itself."

– John Dewey

Learning is a lifelong journey that shapes who we are and how we impact the world. Embrace every opportunity to grow, knowing that education enriches every moment of our lives

what's up this month

what are we celebrating

Mariano's graduating! One more year in the books for my higher education pursuit, and the first big milestone in achieving this dream of mine. I have officially finished my bachelor’s degree; the past 5th of June, I successfully defended my thesis, which was my last step towards graduating. Now what is left is to wait until the official ceremony in which my family will join me in this celebration, and I couldn’t be happier for that.

As I look ahead, I am filled with excitement and a bit of nervousness. Moving to Portugal to study at Nova SBE for my Master’s degree is a huge step for me. I am eager to embrace this new chapter in my life, with its challenges and opportunities. The thought of living in yet another new country, meeting new people, and diving deep into my master's studies is exhilarating. I hope to grow not just academically, but also personally. I want to learn about the Portuguese culture, improve my language skills, and make lifelong friends.

Leaving behind the familiar is always tough. But I know that this journey is essential for my future. It’s another chance to prove to myself that I can adapt, thrive, and succeed in a new environment. I am ready to take on this adventure and see where it leads me!

Events

Nico completes his first year in college far away from home! At just 9 days away from going back home after 10 months of being so far from it, memories I’ve made throughout this last year and memories from back home have been hitting me like tidal waves, making me have trouble sleeping. For the past weeks when I close my eyes I remember everything I’ve gone through this last year… from having no idea of how to use the public transport in the city, to knowing the train stations and lines like the palm of my hand; or from having no idea what an “international expeirence” is like, to it becoming my new normality.

A few days ago I was speaking with a friend from back home about how before I had no clue what hanging out with a foreigner was like, and now, all my friends are from all over the world. Something that brings us together is that we are all foreigners in London. Who would’ve thought that I would become best friends with a brazilian? Who would’ve thought that one night I hang out with my german friends, and the next with iranians? Who would’ve thought that I’ve had team projects with people from Kyrgyzstan, Italy, Cambodia, Spain, Greece, Ivory Coast, Germany and more? It is such a crazy feeling to realize how one year ago this wasn’t in any way, shape or form even a whim of a thought— and now, its my daily routine.

It is an understatement to say I have thoroughly enjoyed this last year and that I could not be happier. I am extremely excited to go back home and see all my friends and family, and I am excited to come back to London, to my new apartment, to start the second chapter of this university experience. I am looking forward for what the future holds.

students updates

Heartfelt thank you to Chad and …. For sponsoring our Paella Fest was an exquisite event with remarkable achievements. The ambiance was spectacular, and the food was even better. We successfully raised donations through the 50/50 raffle and brought our community together for the greater cause of the Monarch Effect Foundation. We received excellent feedback on the event and look forward to seeing more growth in future ones. Everyone had an amazing night dancing on to the night and we can't wait for the net one!

Monarch's Mug

Monarch's mug makes an appearance at the Paella fest!!

MCI This Month

The Monarch Circle of Impact has given me tools, perspectives, company, and life lessons I will apply for the rest of my life. I think this program has given me stability and has helped me keep myself on track for school and life in general. It has given me motivation, it has helped me set clear expectations and goals for my future and most importantly it has given me an immense amount of confidence in myself, I’ve always believed in myself and thought of myself as a capable person, but having the tools to make my goals happen and having a great mentor to guide us through the program has made a huge difference in the way I act on a daily basis.

Having the opportunity to share this space on Sundays with the other ambassadors has been amazing, not only do we hear the mentorship, we all nourish each other every day by sharing our assignments and we learn from each other.

-Daniela Enriquez

What is monarch reading

Atomic Habits - James Clear

(reviewed by Samara Tello de Meneses)

"Atomic Habits" is an amazing practical guide that shows how small everyday changes in your habits can make a big difference in your life. The author, James Clear explains in simple ways how the tiny habits, when consistently practiced or changed, can lead to a huge personal and professional growth. This book is filled with easy to understand strategies for building good habits and breaking bad ones, all backed by science and real-life examples. The engaging stories and super straightforward advice make it easy to understand and apply these concepts to your day to day life. "Atomic Habits" is inspiring and inspires you to take control of your habits and transform your life one tiny step at a time. I think this book is a must-read for anyone, whether you are looking to improve yourself, achieve goals or just looking for an empowering and inspiring read.

who is our role model

Carlos Alcaraz is an inspiring role model for me due to his dedication, hard work, and resilience in overcoming challenges. His passion for tennis, sportsmanship, and youthful success demonstrate that age is no barrier to achieving great things. Alcaraz's respectful behavior and balanced approach to life emphasize the importance of fair play and enjoying the journey. His achievements motivate me to believe in my potential and strive for my dreams with determination and enthusiasm.

-Daniela Enriquez

Special Monarch friends

Jeronimo portilla

Gratitude

The Foundation's success stories are a testament to the impact we make when we put our hearts into something. My supportof Monarch Effect goes beyond the financial. They are building a community I want to be part of. It's like getting in with a "start up" business where every small effort makes important change ni the lives of students and families here in Los Cabos.

Since I was a child I have felt unconditional support and affection from them that motivates me to become the best and only version of myself. My family passes on to me their strength and perseverance to achieve what I want and what fulfills me as a person, no matter how difficult the challenges are. I am so grateful for their dedication and effort in investing in my education and guiding me to make my own responsible decisions. They will always be there for me and I for them.

-Melissa