The Reciprocity of Learning Communities by Olivia

The Reciprocity of Learning Communities by Olivia - May 2015 Scholarship Essay

Although I have been fortunate enough over the years to have had the opportunity to volunteer in a variety of ways with a variety of organizations, I have come to regard the time I have spent tutoring in Ms. Amira’s Academic Support Classes as the most fulfilling. The magnitude of the effect of this experience stems largely from the fact that it developed organically, not from previous thought or planning. It is in this learning community that I learned and developed the skill of reciprocal learning.

Over my schooling career, I have helped to tutor many students with varying needs and for various reasons. As a third grader, I helped younger students learn to read and write as well as a classmate, Dasha, who had immigrated from Ukraine. In the following years, I would put the skills I gained use in my own classrooms, at preschools and, most recently, in Ms. Amira’s classroom.

Beginning in junior year, I started working with students from grades 7-12 at the request of Ms. Amira. Working with these students on almost every subject offered at school proved to be one of the greatest challenges I have ever faced, but also one of the most rewarding. Over the course of the last year and a half I have logged over 400 hours working one-on-one and in small groups. One student whom I tutored, John, was struggling in math. When the school counselor, Mr. Kling, commented on his improvement, he said it wouldn’t have been possible without my help! I also helped another boy, Josh, complete an important biology project. When Ms. Amira found out, she insisted he tell me and I saw the pride he felt. It is nearly impossible to think of a better feeling than when a student is able to understand a concept after working with you – whether it is for a few minutes or a few hours. The smiles on their faces and the pride in their achievements when they’ve done well are unforgettable.

One of the unique skills I learned from my peers as I volunteered is that the “peer helping” isn’t just one way, it’s reciprocal. The free exchange of ideas that is possible in one-on-one or small group tutoring helps everyone involved in a variety of ways. For me, having to communicate clearly and effectively with a diverse group of students - oftentimes only minutes after being introduced - initially seemed daunting. Throughout the time I have spent in Academic Support, however, I have overcome this challenge. I have grown tremendously as a person, not only because I have helped others, but because in turn, others helped me.

As a tutor, I needed to help students feel that they were capable of doing the best work that they could and they rose to the occasion. Peer tutoring helped me to advance skills vital in effective leaders, including clear communication and an unfailingly supportive nature. It is important to reiterate the reciprocal nature of everything that occurs in Ms. Amira’s class – as I grew in these key skills, I made an effort to challenge my fellow students to grow as well.