Through AmeriCorps, I work with low-income students at The Boys and Girls Club, helping them enjoy their childhood days and providing opportunities for them through teaching STEM education. I was initially overwhelmed when I started my position. This opportunity was my first experience working with youth. To handle this chaotic new environment of kids running around with scissors and throwing basketballs, I decided to ask my coworkers for their expertise so I could learn from their experiences and mistakes. This strategy was highly successful and one that I will continue to use; Through vicarious learning, my success teaching youth and my situational knowledge exponentially grew and helped me fulfill my commitment to reduce summer learning loss in youth.

The children I work with taught me a lot even though I was their teacher. I interacted with youth from various backgrounds with different life struggles. I heard stories about child abuse, losing parents, and getting kidnapped. This service learning opportunity taught me how to be an advocate and an open-minded person these children can talk to about their struggles. I also learned the importance of self-care. During our debrief sessions, we were given tips on how to relieve our frustrations without letting those emotions affect the quality of our work. Whenever we felt overwhelmed, we were asked to take a moment and situate ourselves before tackling the problem, a vital skill important in any stressful environment.

If you're looking for a meaningful application of your time, consider applying to AmeriCorps and their various projects!