Peter Lafferty
Class of 1992
La Salle University

Along with my Fraternity involvement, Project Appalachia stands out as a very significant part of my La Salle experience. Countless hours spent in Campus Ministry under the tutelage of Brother Charles (Chip) Echelmeier, meetings, planning, fundraising, bonding with members of the group, hours in the van, and other experiences are memorable. The trip and time in Appalachia were very important to me, and the understanding of other people and their issues has remained with me.

Upon graduation, the trip helped illustrate to employers some of my experience and how I work well with a team, and deal with different challenges. It had a direct impact with getting a position in the Student Affairs field, and I was fortunate to advise service groups and go on a Habitat trip to Florida in March, 2003, while working at Bowling Green State University (Ohio).

Service continues to be of interest, with some time spent with Habitat for Humanity, church-related service, and the possibility of serving for a week or more in the future.

In service, we learn about ourselves, our communities, and the people who make up our world. It is a great opportunity that pays back those involved in so many ways.