Darrell Greer
Northern News Services

Rankin Inlet (May 26/04) - Kelli McLarty, 15, readily admits to not being overly interested in the Nunavut Youth Abroad program (NYAP) when she first heard about it this past November at Alaittuq High.

But something prompted the Grade 10 student to take a closer look and, these days, she's glad she did.

"I watched a video on the students who went before because I wasn't convinced I wanted to take something on that I had to put so much effort into," says McLarty.

"But I could see how much fun the students were having on the video and how great of an opportunity it really was, so I decided to apply."

McLarty says the NYAP organizers made it clear how much work would be involved right from the start.

As tough as it was, she says she enjoyed getting prepared for the program and is looking forward to delivering her presentation in Ottawa.

"I got a lot of brochures, magazines, pins and stuff to show during my presentation, so I'll do a good job representing Nunavut."

McLarty embarks on her adventure on June 25 and returns to Rankin on Aug. 14.

She'll find out in Ottawa whether her summer placement will be in British Columbia or Ontario.

But, either way, she hopes this summer is just the beginning of her adventure.

"I'm definitely going to continue on and apply for the International Phase.

"I was kind of lucky this year because I turn 16 just 10 days before I go. At first I was just an alternate because of my age, but I kept up with my work and showed the organizers I can handle it."

McLarty says she's going to arrive in Ottawa with an open mind and take the summer as it comes.

She's hopes to be working with children during her placement. "I'll do my best at whatever job I get because the experience could really help me make up my mind about what I want to do in the future."