5 Lessons from My City Year Experience

I used to think I was a pretty reflective person, pondering things and questioning takeaways from people and experiences. Little did I know becoming a City Year Little Rock AmeriCorps member would only amplify that. As I enter my second year of service, it has been quite an odyssey since my first day as an AmeriCorps member. In that time, I have felt excited, frustrated, defeated, enlightened, and everything in between. So, what have I learned from my experience thus far?

In addition to being able to list all ten of City Year’s core values or how to navigate a Google calendar, I have learned a lot.

Here are five lessons I have learned from my City Year experience.

1. Every kid deserves a chance.

I often heard friends who worked in schools complain about how “bad” a student was or that kids don’t care to learn, let alone be at school. I would instantly think, “That’s harsh!” To be on the inside and see the severity and lack of motivation for our students, I know that they have already experienced several people giving up on them. Many of our students face hardships we, as adults, will never have to endure. Many have had teachers, counselors, administrators, coaches, and even parents give up on them. As an adult, I have needed guidance and often just wanted a second chance when I didn’t quite meet the set standards. Our students are no different. They deserve a chance even when they have a bad day.

2. Meet people where they are.

As the times change and technology advances, so do our future leaders. Although I have been out of high school for over eight years, a lot has changed since then. Students today have lived through many historical events, including a global pandemic that drastically affected their school careers and daily lives outside school. In years past, traditional educational systems adapted to a one-size-fits-all approach. New personalized learning environments are shifting to a more inclusive and student-centered approach. This allows for strengths to be identified individually, and teachers and student success coaches like me can meet our students where they are.

3. Prioritize self-care and mental health.

Prior to my tenure at City Year, I was not super big on self-care. A pedicure every two weeks was standard; honestly, that is the bare minimum when it comes to real self-care.

I have learned how to say no to things and people when necessary. I am thankful to work in a space that advocates for its employees and their mental health. Being able to take mental health days and have spaces readily available to talk to someone when needed has been life-changing.

4. Ask for help

This might seem like a no-brainer to some. However, you’d be surprised how many things I tell myself I can do alone.

City Year AmeriCorps is one of the most team-focused spaces I have worked in. I have learned to lean on my team for support professionally and mentally. I have come home many days venting to my loved ones, but it always helps to vent to someone who knows exactly what you are going through.

From my Impact Manager to my teammates, I wouldn’t be able to make half the impact I have thus far without them.

5. Show grace to yourself and those around you.

Simply put, it speaks volumes. On days when I want to give 110% and can only give 65%, I give myself grace. When my students become frustrated with an assignment or have an off day, I give them grace. When my teammates aren’t feeling their best or make a mistake, I give them grace.

I’m reminded daily that so many things happen outside our worlds and that we are figuring life out as we go. Showing grace to myself and those around me is the biggest takeaway from my City Year experience thus far.

I have learned so many lessons from my City Year experience; I could go on for days! But at the end of the day, it has taught me to keep going and always remember my why.

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