Catching a snake in the dorm, being a mother to fifty girls, bartering in the marketplace, handing out food to villagers during the drought, being “bit” by a cheetah, coping with homesickness, and climbing Mount Kilimanjaro were just some of the adventures and challenges Valerie faced as a student missionary at Maxwell Adventist Academy in Kenya.
What Valerie didn’t expect during her year abroad was how much she fell in love with her adopted country and how difficult it was to adjust to life once she came back to the States.
It’s Worth the Sacrifice chronicles her student missionary (SM) experience and offers advice to those interested in going overseas. Valerie hopes that what she learned will help other SMs while serving and during re-entry.
Valerie Lee is an assistant professor in the Biology/Allied Health Department at Southern Adventist University. She enjoys reading, writing, and spending time outdoors with her husband, James, hiking, camping, and rock climbing. |
There is a preview of this book available (link will open in a new window).
Posted by TSImarketing on 20th Jan 2015
TEACH Services received this on 09/16/14:
"Refreshing to hear of young people willing to give a year of their life to serve others. It saddened me to hear of the loneliness and heartache that can be experienced while living in another continent. The challenges of having to take on responsibilities not agreed upon and being able to succeed was inspiring."
Sheri D
Posted by TSImarketing on 20th Jan 2015
TEACH Services received the following review on 10/28/2014:
"Valerie makes a good case for the challenges and rewards of being a student missionary and the potential difficulties some encounter when returning after being immersed in another culture. While different for each person, it surprised me how many others had similar reactions when returning home to their friends and family. I believe that understanding this could help those of us who are glad to see our friends or family return but not understand why they may seem somehow different.
I thought the book was written in an interesting style, detailing Valerie's adventures and personal thoughts. I was especially moved by her challenge of heights and overcoming on her trek down Mt. Kilimanjaro.
I highly recommend this book to anyone, but especially to someone who is thinking of serving, or knows someone who has been a student missionary."
Ken L.
Posted by ALR on 27th Oct 2014
If you’re thinking about being a student missionary, you should read this book. Lee shares her adventures and lessons in an easy to read informative way. After you read this you’ll feel better prepared to take on the challenge.