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This year I enrolled in Atascadero High School’s very first ethnic studies class. Through this class, I was given the opportunity to volunteer at Santa Rosa Elementary along with many other seniors, and it has truly been a rewarding experience. For the first few days I was placed in Mr. Smith’s 4th grade class. From the moment I walked in, I was greeted by the infectious enthusiasm of the students, who were eager to get to know us and share all about themselves. Every student was incredibly bubbly and friendly, filling the classroom with laughter and energy that instantly reminded me of my own childhood in elementary school. The welcoming atmosphere they created made it surprisingly easy to connect with them, I felt like I was a part of their community right from the start. I anticipated that it might be awkward and hard to engage with the kids, unsure if they would even be interested in talking with a high schoolers. To my surprise, they seemed thrilled to have us there, and all they wanted to do was hang out with the “cool high schoolers.”
As a part of this dual enrollment class, we are required to complete 20 hours of community service as one of our assigned projects, which adds an extra layer of meaning to our time spent with the students. It feels good knowing that I’m not just checking off a requirement, but I’m making a positive impact on their lives. The connections I’m able to build with the students are incomparable, and as I continue with this volunteering experience, I look forward to the growth and understanding that comes from engaging with these kids. Overall, this opportunity to connect with young students and contribute to their learning journey has offered challenges and joys, I am excited to continue exploring this path and making the most of every experience that comes my way.