Compassion in Action

What have you done to integrate you major in college or your interests into SuperKids Camp and why do you think this is important?

When I'm standing in front of my classroom, I don't just see 12 students. I see 12 amazing, little individuals with so much potential, personality, and opportunity within their reach. The same intensity of protection I have my little niece and nephew is the same I have for my campers. Protection from danger, yes, but also from others who may try to tear them down. From those whose mind is too small to see the greatness that lies within them. From those who intentionally or unintentionally speak negativity into their lives. I want to shield them from all of these things.

It's important to have a listening ear as a psychology major, as most people who take on this major are looking to work with people to some capacity. I try to bring this attribute into my classroom.

During the YMCA enrichment, the art instructor gave my class the option to all work on one project together, or for the boys to do something together and the girls do another thing together. It was a resounding uproar for the latter, all except for one girl, Ariyanna. After the class settled down and started to work on their different art projects, Ariyanna approached me.

With a furrowed brow and eyes downturned, she began to share with me why she didn't want to work with the girls. Her points were very valid so I took the time to talk with her to try to settle her concerns. I'm sure there may have still have been a sense of reluctancy, but she joined her female classmates and started to work on the art project. Her coming to me and voicing her frustrations opened my eyes to some issues that I had overlooked in the classroom. I was thankful that she felt comfortable enough to express herself to me.

It is also important to have an encouraging spirit.

At the end of the day, I have what I call feedback time where I talk to my students as a class about what great things they did that day and things we can improve on the following day. I decided to switch it up one day and do it individually. During the last 15 minutes or so before dismal, I called each student up by themselves and simply took the time to speak life into them. Simple "you're doing such a great job," "I love having you in my class," "you are very attentive during the lesson," made them perk right up. Heads were held a bit higher, shoulders went back, and a smile or two popped up.

As a psychology major it's only fitting that I have a heart of compassion for people and want to help them reach their full potential. One of my desires in life is to make people feel wanted, loved, and heard. I want those around me to feel free to be themselves. I want this for my students.