About Me:
“What do you want to become when you’re older?” When this question was asked in my days at elementary school, my standard response was always “I want to become a doctor”. When the same question was put to me a few years later, in middle school, my response changed to “I wanted to join the Army”. This was evident from my English class essays which would always have something to do with me joining the army. However, over the years, I realized I was destined for other things in life.
Despite the several twists and turns in my career direction, one wish that has always remained was the motivation to help people in whatever way I can and create a positive impact on their lives. As I have begun this journey to help people in my own ways, here I am, today asking you to be a part of something special.
Running Experience:
When I came to the United States in 2015 for my graduate studies, I was borderline obese, physically nowhere close to fit enough and could hardly run a mile! It was at this juncture that destiny sent me towards the running group – Gators for Asha (now Asha Florida), at the University of Florida. What began as a journey to merely get a free Indian meal once in a while completely changed my life forever (and for good). Despite joining the group for reasons other than running, eventually running became an integral part of my life, a journey that began with Team Asha.
My Request:
Asha Florida is a part of Asha for Education, a well-known non-profit NGO in the States which supports improving education for under privileged children in India. By running the Gate River Run (15k/9.3 miles) for the third time, I am helping the Gators for Asha in raising funds for their projects, which provides basic infrastructure and improves education across the projects we support. I was fortunate enough to come to the States with the help of my family and friends. However, not all kids are as fortunate as I was to pursue their dreams.
Yet, there is a way we can all positively contribute to make the lives of these under privileged children better. We must be the change we wish to see around us. So please join me along with Gators for Asia to help improve the education of these children. No amount is small or large. Even a dollar/rupee could help in making the lives of these children become better.
Thank You,
Rajesh Sampath
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Comments:
We are so proud in how far you have come on this journey. You wrote a truly heartfelt bio. We will see you at River Run for a long overdue reunion. – Dana
Keep spreading joy!! – Muralidhar