After my month working with a second grader as part of a service learning component in one of my classes, I learned a lot about myself, and about her as well. Being back in an elementary school reinforced my love for children and made me feel very nostalgic about my own time spent in colorful classroom, eagerly awaiting snack time.
My service learning experience occurred as a result of my College Writing I class. I received an email over the summer asking if I would be interested in participating in a service learning class working with second and third graders, and I jumped at the chance. I was told that this would be the typical College Writing I class, with the added element of the service learning. However, in reality, it has been anything but a typical class. In the few short weeks that I have been in the class, I have learned more than I have in any other English class.
We were partnered with a child from one of two classes at an elementary school in Lowell. These children are the stronger readers in their classes, and because of this, don’t get as much individual attention. That is where we come in. Our goal was to work with them to make their strong reading skills even stronger. The teachers gave us a “book report,” which is to be completed over the course of our visits. Most of the work will be done by the children, and the our job is to help and guide them along.
The most surprising thing I have learned throughout this experience has been the shocking amount a 19-year-old can have in common with a seven-year-old. Although I knew I would enjoy working with her, I never expected to see her as a friend. I have learned so much about her through our work together that I find it difficult to see her as anything other than a friend.
When I met her, I did not expected her to be as bright and eager to learn as she was. As our schooling goes on, we tend to lose the enthusiasm that children seem to always have. She was always working hard, asking questions, and eager to share what she learned. It was refreshing to be in an environment like this after so many years of hearing groans in school hallways.
Regarding myself, I learned that I have a lot more patience than I have given myself credit for in the past. I was able to help my partner work through difficulties she had, even though they were obvious and easy to me. I had always wondered how teachers were able to teach students simple things such as addition and subtraction, because they have become second nature at this point. Although it was not easy, I was able to help her in areas where she was having difficulties. This also helped me, as I had to challenge myself to think in new ways.
Although it saddens me that my time with her has come to an end, I am grateful to have had this experience, and I know I will benefit greatly from it and take away lessons that will last me a lifetime.
