As I reflect on my last several months of choices, I am so glad I chose to serve as a Promise Fellow. Somehow I was able to connect with an organization that does so much good for the community, while still supporting me as an individual. I was finally able to connect with students in person for the first time in 6 months on a weekly basis.
The connections that were formed this last trimester may be stronger than a whole year combined. It still amazes me the resilience of students, and their willingness to keep trying after this last year of chaos. I can’t believe that I was able to assist them to find their best selves amidst the fluctuation of “learning type.” They were able to conquer hybrid learning, distance learning, and in-person learning, sometimes more than one at a time, all while still being able to joke and grow as individuals.
I am so glad I was able to offer a safe space, a quick laugh, an honest opinion, and open opportunities to complete school work to students this year. I am so glad I chose a community partner with AmeriCorps and the Promise Fellow program because I am able to serve these students and others in a capacity of personal growth in the summertime, rather than just academics during the school year. Again, I am thankful for the opportunity to serve and am excited to move forward serving youth in my future.
Julia, 2020/21 AmeriCorps Promise Fellow