What inspired you to serve with MPF and what are you most looking forward to this year?
I was inspired to serve with MPF and SquashBusters to create for students the kind of incredible out-of-school experiences that I had growing up in sports. Partnering athletics with academics provides SQB students with a team that supports their personal growth and journey throughout secondary school. This year I look forward to watching the SquashBusters team rise to success in and outside of the classroom!
What does a typical day in the life of an MPF fellow look like?
My mornings consist of team meetings, session planning, and family/student outreach. The party starts when the students arrive in the afternoon! During our free time I try to hop on the squash court with students and hit around or kick a soccer ball and catch up. Then we head to the classroom for homework sessions where I can work with students one on one completing college applications or whatever studying they have for the day. Finally I get to run what we call enrichment sessions, which are open sessions to explore the students’ interests. In enrichment we’ve tackled personal finance, sexual health education, social justice, and much more.
What do you appreciate about your host site?
SquashBusters understands that our students are under a lot of pressure at home, in school, and in the world at large during this pandemic. As a result we place a huge focus on having fun while we’re together in the space. Every day we are playing games, sharing snacks, listening to good music, and being there for one another however possible. There is a lot of work for us to get done, but we will always find ways to break it up with fun and games.
What are your plans after MPF and how is doing a year of service helping?
I plan on attending law school next fall after completing my second year of service. Currently, I hope to work in natural resource law, with a focus on water law. Through MPF’s partnership with Northeastern University I am completing a Master’s of Science in International Relations with a concentration in Global Health and Development! I have access to amazing resources and professors through the program that continuously shape my career goals in the legal profession.
What is your favorite part of working with youth?
The focus on having fun and bringing positive energy to their days. And the fact that it keeps me slightly in the loop in terms of TikTok trends and today’s lingo. Though they will likely tell you that I am clueless on that front…
What is your life motto/ mantra/ affirmation?
Make sure that you’re part of solution
What is your favorite way to practice selfcare, especially during this year of service?
Using the gym in the SquashBusters building. The views of Boston are incredible!
If you were an animal, what animal would you be?
Green Sea Turtle
The Massachusetts Promise Fellowship 