Background
I spent the first part of my life in Louisiana then moved to Texas my sophomore year in high school.  After high school I attended 3 different colleges but finished with a bachelors degree in Psychology and Sociology from Houston Baptist University. The summer before my 3rd year in college I did an internship with my home church in Spring, Texas, with the youth ministry.  From then on, I was hooked.  It was through this experience that I discovered a passion to see students reach their potential and grow as leaders in the Church.

How did you become a Christian?
I was involved with Young Life in high school and heard the gospel of Jesus Christ for the first time at a weekend retreat. I didn’t have a clear understanding about what it looked like to pursue the Lord with my whole heart until my sophomore year in college.  I lived with three amazing girls who challenged me to live differently and have pure joy in all things. I wanted my life to look like theirs. I’m still in the growth process and hope to be until the day I go home.

What is a leadership lesson you have learned while serving at LeaderTreks?
Since joining LeaderTreks I have learned the importance of being teachable. I have not always been the most teachable person and when that happens, there is frustration on my part as well as those trying to teach me.  Being a teachable leader is one who serves without question, and values others more highly than themselves.  I desire to learn and, in turn, live differently based on those lessons.   

What is one of your gifts and how do you use it?
My Leadership Type is a Relater/Mover. I enjoy relating to people on a deeper level and, through that relationship asking more of them and pushing them to greatness. On a daily basis I use it here in the LT office through encouraging youth pastors and giving them ideas in how to challenge their students on a higher level.

Who is one student that you have seen grow as a leader?
Sarah was a girl I had on a trip this past summer in Kentucky. Sarah was the nicest girl to everyone and everyone wanted to be around her. I really challenged her to take a risk and ask more of her team. She did it and discovered the power of those relationships built. She had her whole team on board, ready to do whatever she asked and we worked 3 hours past when we were suppose to break for lunch to finish the trip strong.  Sarah caught onto the vision of her potential to lead her peers in a powerful way.

Family
My family is both in Texas and Louisiana.  I have two older brothers, two sisters-in-law, and two younger half sisters.  I’m also the very proud aunt of one beautiful niece, and one nephew on the way.  My mom is very influential in my life and I value the little time I get to spend with her on holidays.

Personal Blog
http://nikipellegrin.blogspot.com