My name is Cacie Waters, and I am a senior Government major at The University of Texas at Austin. After graduation, I hope to obtain a Masters in Public Affairs and pursue a career in the world of nonprofits. In my spare time I am writing away. You can never write too much -- I keep a journal for everything!
I grew up in New Caney, TX, a very rural area north of Houston, with my twin brother. Growing up in a small town with a twin has made forming close and intimate bonds a natural process to me. I have always advocated for social justice and I knew that I could take an active role in social issues in a city like Austin. So, after high school I decided to attend UT Austin to study Government, Sociology, and Rhetoric and Writing. I want to use my education to make an impact in the fight for social justice.
I attended a FACE AIDS meeting in my junior year at UT and was immediately hooked. Joining FACE AIDS provided me with the outlet to fulfill the advocacy role I had been chasing. The social justice foundation was a great bonus. The work we do for and with Rwanda is clearly communicated and impactful across our campus. I cannot wait to communicate this relationship with the many communities, organizations, and recruits we encounter while trekking across the U.S.
I know that 4000+ miles in 67 days will be a physical and mental challenge. I also know that this challenge will pale in comparison to the challenges those affected by HIV/AIDS face. I will constantly remind myself of their strength and use it as motivation throughout the ride. I wholeheartedly admire FACE AIDS' mission I am thrilled to take such an active role alongside a group of driven advocates with similar goals in the Ride Against AIDS! I cannot wait to share my experience with y'all! I'll be updating the blog, but if you have any thoughts or questions or would just like to chat, shoot me an email at clwaters [at] utexas.edu.