While traveling, it never failed that I had to really dig in to explain my two years in Teach For America. It always took a little more time to explain the educational setting in the U.S., the creation and donors for TFA, and the prestige of the program. Ultimately, I often wondered if I’d accurately portrayed the program without sounding like a martyr or a braggart.
But back in the U.S., there’s rarely any explaining necessary. Most people of my generation who went to a four-year university know someone who did TFA. And just having those three initials on my resume and website have opened many doors for me. Literally (any time I’ve been house-hunting in NYC, as soon as the person finds out I was a TFA corps member they automatically believe that I’m a good person and could care less to actually meet me and make sure) and figuratively.
As Teach For America now expands globally, I wonder, what kinds of people in Estonia will join there.
Whoever they are, I’m hoping it helps me explain my two-year experience to people in other countries later.
But just so you know, I’m probably not going to Estonia any time soon.
I think you did an amazing thing being part of TFA. My best friend from H.S. also did TFA – in a tiny town on a native american reservation in New Mexico. She met her fiance there, they went to grad school and are headed back there to do great things. They are truly amazing – as many people are who did TFA.
I just “met” some people over internet who are coming to Chile to start Teach for America…or whatever it’s called here
NICE poster. What lesson was that for – teaching the kids that no work ethic and a jump shot that looks beautiful but is only accurate 15 percent of the time will get you to the pinnacle of your profession?
Of course…I only taught the really important life lessons. Hehehe.
I definitely relate. But for me, the questions come closer to home (literally actually, from people in my hometown in Southern California who have never heard of TFA). But as TFA expands globally, the mission trickles out and I too am anxious to see what happens with Teach For All across the world.
It’s important, though, that you do take the time to explain the experience because it’s just the starting point for many of us.
Because our kids deserve the same life opportunities as kids in wealthier areas, I have used my experience and taken on the second part of the mission. I’m starting a non-profit aimed at engaging individuals in meaningful giving to high-need kids. Hopefully it will revolutionize educational philanthropy.
Unlike traditional charities–where donors just open their checkbooks and aren’t 100% sure where the money goes–The Generation Project gives donors creative control over gifts geared toward kids growing up in low-income communities. So, YOU can give gifts based on what experiences YOU think are important. Check us out at http://www.thegenerationproject.org to learn more.
Right now we’re in a contest on ideablob.com to help us win $10,000 in much-needed start-up costs. Please vote for us! This doesn’t cost you a penny and it only takes 2 minutes of your time!
Vote NOW through AUGUST 31st:
http://www.ideablob.com/ideas/2889-Share-YOUR …
Thanks for your support. We’d love to hear your thoughts on our idea! If you like it, please tell your friends!
ALSO vote here if you have 2 more minutes:
http://www.membersproject.com/project/view/UA …
The pic of your classroom brings back so many memories! Good luck with everything.
woops! here is the right link for the Members Project:
http://www.membersproject.com/project/view/UAKFMD
thanks for your support!
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