Erica Yoon, joined Citizen Schools after graduating from UC Berkeley with a Bachelors majoring in Cognitive Science Education minor. Serving as a AmeriCorps Teaching Fellow at Greenleaf K-8 Elementary School family in Oakland, California, she says “I love this job! It is definitely a position that comes with various challenges, but the relationships I make and the improvements I see on a daily basis keep me going.” Outside of work, she enjoys going for swims, playing Monopoly Deal, and singing karaoke.

Read more on her experience below.

Why did you decide to become an AmeriCorps Teaching Fellow?

Growing up, I was enrolled in a lot of community programs that supplemented my education in the public school system. I know that without these community programs, I would not be anywhere close to where I am and who I am today. Having this background, I volunteered at a few schools during my college education and saw the need at public schools. I became an Americorps Teaching Fellow in order to help fill this need, as well as build my experience as an aspiring educator and community service member.

One surprise that I encountered during my service was ______ ?

One surprise that I encountered during my service year was the thoughtfulness of some of my students.

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

One of the most transformative moments of my service was seeing some of my students shift from dreading academic enrichment and instead becoming excited for academic intervention.

What is one piece of advice you wish you’d gotten before your service year?

I wish I had known more about the importance of work-life balance before I started my service year.

One way that I feel supported by my peers and/or Citizen Schools is by ______ ?

One way that I feel supported by my peers and Citizen Schools is when staff support and encourage my ideas for program.

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

Service has made me recognize the lengths that teamwork can go.

I feel the most inspired by ________?

I feel the most inspired by seeing students improve in their academic, personal, and social skill sets.

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

I'd summarize my year of service with the word, "growth". I've not only grown in learning how to build relationships with students and staff, but I've also grown in learning how to be a better teammate, and build curriculum.

After my service year I hope to ____?

After my service year, I hope to continue my work in education and social justice.

If I could describe a perfect day it would be______ ?

My perfect day would be going for a walk in Marina Park, watching a movie, and spending time with friends and family.

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