My decision to become an AmeriCorps Teaching Fellow was driven by a desire to serve in a tangible way. As a student at Wheaton College in suburban Chicago, I was an observer, and indeed, a participant in the segregation between the predominantly white and affluent suburb I resided in, and the economically disadvantaged and minority communities within Chicago.
Read MoreI found out about the Fellowship through my older brother, who served as both a TA and TF with Citizen Schools for 3 years in Chelsea and Dorchester. My first experience working in education came in my senior year of college at UMass Amherst, where I interned at the Amherst Middle School as part of my practicum.
Read MoreI decided to become an AmeriCorps Teaching Fellow because I wanted to impact students by providing them with the tools that they need to succeed academically. During my primary education, I did not have the privilege of having a person to ensure that I was obtaining all the skills that I needed to flourish in my academics. I come from a family where my parents worked long hours, are not articulate English speakers, and therefore, was unable to support me with my academics.
Read MoreI decided to become an AmeriCorps Teaching Fellow because of my passion for teaching. Before I enter the classroom fully I wanted to give back to my community. I chose to do service so that I can know what is needed and required in the classroom. Joining Citizen Schools was one of the best decisions I have made because although I have tough days, I know that I am becoming a better teacher in the process.
Read MoreMy decision to become an AmeriCorps Teaching Fellow was an unexpected decision. I was always immersed in research whether it was assisting my professors in their own research or brainstorming ideas for a Fulbright or Watson study abroad experience. I imagined myself leaving Colby and pursuing research in Cultural Studies or exploring interests in Public and Community Health.
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