My Americorps Experience

Before coming to college, I decided I would take a year off and try something different. After some researching I learned about Americorps and how they help communities and other states. I decided to apply, and once I was accepted, I was given the opportunity to mentor in a inner city school in Austin. The location of the school was not in the best of places and I never ventured in that area before. I became very never and anxious to know how I was going to make a positive impact on the students. After a week of observing, I was able to start mentoring. My kids had issues that ranged from behavioral to low self-esteem. At first, I was a little disappointed in myself because I believed that I was not doing my job. My supervisor explained to me that most of my students have had adults come into their lives and leave without warning so they will have trouble trusting me. I then stopped feeling down and concentrated on gaining their trust. After a few weeks, all the students began to open up to me and I began to see progress. My next concern was what activities I was going to do with these kids! I soon figured out that by playing a simple game or talking to each other was helping the child. To cut the story short, I learned a lot about myself and children. I had some challenges and issues but I learned how to overcome them. The most important element of me being a Americorps member was that I provided my children with a positive role model and taught them things that the adults in their life either did not have time for or did not care enough to do so. My experience with Americorps was both positive and life changing !!


Have a blessed day!!