Favorite Non-Traditional Learning Methods by Serenity

Favorite Non-Traditional Learning Methods by Serenity - September 2024 Scholarship Essay

As young adults, we are often asked, "What do you want to be when you grow up?" My initial response has always been, "Something that involves helping kids." Quinter Junior Senior High offers the unique opportunity to intern in a field of our interest, and I chose to spend the past year with first-year preschoolers and now kindergarteners. An internship (work-study) is my favorite nontraditional way to learn because you experience both practical experience and professional exposure that goes beyond the everyday classroom. Not only do you get hands-on experience, skill development, and networking opportunities, but you also get to experience career exploration.
I selected this internship to confirm my continued interest in working with and helping children. Pre-school is a crucial period in a child's life-- emotional development, social skills, sensory processing, identification, etc. I wanted to learn how to balance the fun and interactive activities into the yearly requirements. Over the past year, I have realized that teaching requires a deep commitment to my education and career and to the children. Who will one day become the future leaders of our world? At this moment, I realized that's who I am. I want to make a difference, to help kids who deserve nothing less than a chance at a better tomorrow.
My love for kids goes beyond my internship; I am just as committed to making a difference in the world outside of school. I teach a religion class every Wednesday, where I help 6th graders deepen their faith. I also have worked many hours at a long-term care facility caring for the elderly and nannying for several families in my community. Ultimately, it taught me skills I will remember forever. Volunteering as a religious teacher has sharpened my ability to explain complex concepts and create deep connections, enhancing my understanding of many different perspectives and strengthening my leadership skills. I am a better person after spending so much time at the long-term care facility. I understand the complexities of patient care, but I also see the value and importance of human connection. Nannying for multiple families and taking care of kids with special needs have also improved my problem-solving skills and flexibility because I've had to modify my methods to fit each child's individual needs.
Whether I become an elementary education teacher or a juvenile justice/children's rights attorney, my goal is to help children who deserve nothing less than a chance at a better tomorrow. This internship, and my experiences outside of school have been incredibly valuable and has become my favorite nontraditional learning experience. It allowed me to reflect deeply on my future and connect those insights with my academic pursuits.