City Year alumni take many different paths after their corps year. No matter what path our alumni take, the skills and experiences that they have as a City Year corps member prepare them for any career they wish to pursue.
To learn more about what City Year alumni are up to now, check out these alumni profiles:
Gabby Fish ’11 & ’12, City Year Washington, DC
Teach For America, D.C. Public Schools
Q: Why did you decide to join City Year?
A: I had an alternative spring break experience during college where I traveled to South Dakota and mentored middle school students on a Native American Reservation – on the reservation I had an overwhelming realization of poverty in our country as I saw how it affected the youth there. After I graduated, I worked for a non-profit called Bread and Water for Africa. While working for them I discovered City Year and fell in love with City Year’s mission. It was a perfect fit because I really wanted to work with youth directly and have a real impact.
Q: What are your long-term plans post City Year and TFA?
A: Eventually I want to get involved in education reform within the DC public school district, specifically focusing on creating sustainable turnaround models. I have learned so much about how to successfully restructure and turn around a school over the past two years at Stanton, and after four years I will have a wealth of knowledge to share with other struggling schools.
Q: What advice do you have for someone who is considering applying to City Year?
A: If you’re interested in applying to City Year, come into the experience with an open mind, ready and willing to “moccasin” other people’s experiences. Constantly empathize with those around you – both your students and your teammates. You have to have an open mind with this job to have an effective team and successful corps year. I also recommend visiting schools and sites – you will have a much greater understanding of what City Year is if you do so.