Andrew Luck is the External Engagement and Communications AmeriCorps VISTA member, serving at our regional office in California where he is responsible for developing collateral marketing pieces, creating content for social media, working in our 6 Degrees Networking and Benefit Education Events and assist establishing a cohort of volunteers.

1. Why did you decide to become an AmeriCorps VISTA?

I became an AmeriCorps VISTA because I wanted to go a different direction with my professional life and gain an experience that I would not have anywhere else.

2. What has been one of the most transformative moments of your service?

Having the chance to go to one of the middle schools and teach a math class. Actually being at the campus, as opposed to working in the regional office was great because I actually got a chance to see what the work I do behind the scenes can accomplish.

3. How has service changed you and your perspective of the world?

I now, more than ever, know the importance of education and how large of an opportunity gap exists for some students. As a country, there are glaring fundamental issues in our educational system that will continue to negatively effect us as we move further into the future. Every student needs the same accessibility to a quality learning experience. As a citizen of this country, it is just and fair.

4. If you could summarize your year of service in one word, which one would it be? Why?

Enriching: Not only is this an incredibly educational and "enriching" experience for me, but hopefully some of the things I can accomplish during this short year can have some kind of lasting effect on at least one student. Whether it be to reach out to one Citizen Teacher to volunteer, or get the word out for an event to one more individual, I can feel that I have made some kind of positive effect for Citizen Schools.