So I got out of class an hour early...!

I had no clue that this University 101 class was based around Service Learning until I came to the first class, and, apparently, no one else did (thanks, advisors!). At the time I was a bit intimidated by the fact that I would, once again, have to do community service in order to meet the expectations of the course (just like in high school), and I admit that I still am. The best part about the class, though, is that it will fulfill all of my Capstone requirements for this semester! (I think... If not, I plan to go to stuff anyway).

When it comes to what I am excited for for mentoring, I am not sure. I like working with children, but I know that as a 6th grader one does not want to be treated like the child they still are. I'm excited to have an impact on someone's life, but I am also worried that I will just feel awkward, that I will forget something, or I will get the kid who is just as awkward as I was at that age.

Me in the 7th Grade... yup.
(I couldn't find one from the
6th grade... =[[)

I have worked with kids before, but not ones this age (eleven), so that is intimidating. Eleven year olds can have attitudes, but I suppose they are better than high school freshmen (I think most things are better than high school freshmen...). I hope that after a session or two we will become more comfortable around each other so that we can have a productive semester! (Perhaps year if I decide to continue in the program next semester for my required service.)

From this program I hope not only to pass on my knowledge to a young[er] person to let them know that everything will be OK, and middle school is really not that bad (my favorite schooling years, by far, if I am honest), but I also foresee myself benefiting from our interactions. I will re-experience, to some extent, the transition from elementary to middle school at the same time as going through my own transition from high school to college. Maybe by reminiscing upon my past experience I will be able to help myself in the present. Additionally, I will also gain knowledge when it comes to how to deal with sixth graders, which I am sure will be challenging and fun at the same time...

Tschüß!!

Holland