We asked members of the Class of 2014 about their experiences with Civic Scholars and about where they are now.
Tiffini Hyatt
I’m currently working as a kindergarten teacher in Chicago. For my civic project, I worked on teacher development with D.C. Public Schools. My experience there confirmed that I wanted to teach and, perhaps, work in educational leadership one day. It also gave me the opportunity to test out a new city, which I ended up falling in love with and moving to after graduation.
I would encourage current Civic Scholars to identify whatever it is that excites them and use that as a professional “North Star.” With each opportunity that comes your way, consider how it propels you closer to your North Star. I got this idea from a quote by Myleik Teele, founder of curlBOX and all-around professional superstar: “Your salary is not a bribe to forget your dreams…. Your job [should] provide experience for your dreams.”
Hallie Dobkin
I am currently living in Cambridge, Ma finishing up my second year of medical school. For my civic project I helped design and run a summer camp for grade school kids in inner city St. Louis. The summer camp was focused on storytelling and exposure to STEM subjects. We partnered with Bon Appetit on campus to provide hot lunches every day and with other community organizations for field trips and visits focused on exposure to science. I also worked one on one with campers to create a “talent day” in which each camper shared his or her skills with the rest of the group.
My biggest takeaway from the summer was the importance of community partnership in the success and impact of any project as well as the importance of building in sustainability at every level.
My advice to current scholars is to dig deep and consider your motivations and intentions when designing and implementing a project. Don’t be afraid to use your network (Civic Scholars alum and beyond).