How a Summer in Spain Changed Grace's Perspective on Her Future
An interview with Grace Roth.
As a college student, it’s easy to wonder: Do I really have the skills or experience to make a difference in the world? Grace, a psychology and counseling major, felt that way too—until a summer internship in Spain with One Collective showed her just how impactful her contributions could be.
Grace spent five weeks in Santiago, Spain, working as a community engagement intern with Apotheca, a social enterprise committed to local sustainability. Her projects ranged from assembling farmer’s baskets and making handmade soap to coordinating community events and designing a menu for the Apotheca store.
““It was a mix of creative, practical, and meaningful work,” she shared. “I even redecorated the chalkboard outside to help advertise Apotheca’s artisanal products and partnerships.””
But the internship wasn’t just about tasks—it was also about building relationships and stepping into a different way of life. “I’ve never been to Spain before, so the culture was very different than what I expected,” Grace recalled. “We walked six to seven miles a day, ate amazing food, and lived more slowly. It was such a privilege to immerse myself in a different lifestyle.”
Grace admitted that she had initial doubts about how her classroom knowledge could translate to this kind of work. “I expected to feel out of place and uncomfortable, and I definitely did,” she said, laughing. “But I think that’s what made it so wonderful. I wasn’t just stretched—I also discovered strengths I didn’t know I had.”
One of those discoveries was a newfound interest in business and entrepreneurship. “I realized how passionate I am about engaging the community in creative ways,” she said. “It was unexpected, but it’s changed how I see my future. I’m now taking an entrepreneurship class that’s been my favorite one so far. I’m open to wherever God leads me.”
Grace also credited her growth to the support and investment of the One Collective team. “Dusty and Megan, the leaders, met with us one-on-one during the internship to talk about how we were doing. I wasn’t expecting that level of personal care and mentorship, but it meant so much to me. Dusty’s wise words of encouragement really stuck with me.”
Now back in Denver, Grace sees her local community through a new lens. “After serving overseas, I feel energized to use what I’ve learned to make an impact here,” she said. “I’ve been in Denver for four years, so I already know the community well. This experience gave me new tools and perspective to serve in a more productive way.”
For students like Grace, stepping into an experience like this is less about having everything figured out and more about being open to the journey. Her advice for anyone considering cross-cultural service? “Recognize that God has been preparing you your whole life for this moment. You don’t need to have all the answers—you just need to be curious and cultivate enduring habits that will carry you into the work.”
Listen to the Full Interview With Grace Roth:
Make Your Move
Grace’s story is a reminder that you don’t have to be an expert to make a difference. Your skills, passions, and willingness to grow are enough to create meaningful change in communities worldwide.
Are you ready to step into an experience that could transform the way you see your future? Talk to a One Collective Serving Coach today to explore how your unique gifts can meet real needs in a world waiting for change.