I really appreciated the opportunity to work with high school aged students in a co-leadership capacity. It allowed role-modeling, vital experience for a future teacher, and experience in learning to manage a group of teens which involves a lot of improvising! Also, while the ice breakers in the beginning were a bit of a drag... I really did appreciate their power by the end of the program (and this is coming from a very introverted person!). Last thing: as a first-generation, low-income college student, being able to work with high school students from that same broad background (usually, sometimes) was an empowering experience and I think it mattered a lot. Overall, this was just a really fun and extremely beneficial program to have been a part of. Want to make a difference and/or work with teens? Do a summer of SAIL!
What I wish was different
I would have appreciated more of a say in which program I was placed in. Something more relevant to my major, for example. This was something the SAILers (high school students) also expressed - for their counsellors to be involved in the program they were interested/immersed in. It would have allowed more ability to answer questions on the spot and may have added a level of passion that didn't exist for the program I was placed in.
Advice
I would advise you to just do your very best (and seek support when that doesn't feel possible!!). Some people think teens are scary and go in with a hard heart, but they're just young adults that are interested in an experience that YOU are experiencing! Be a role model, open your heart and mind to what they can teach you, and allow yourself to learn alongside them. :)
Lastly: communicate openly and honestly with your co-counsellor. Doing anything less is a disservice to your own experience as well as theirs. It will make for a much more meaningful relationship and two weeks of growth for both/all of you! Have fun!
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One person found this helpful
SAIL Counselor
May - July 2019 • Eugene, OR
What I liked
Amazing program, people and community!
What I wish was different
Advice
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Resident Assistant
July 2019 • Eugene, OR
What I liked
The training for the job was really informative and learned so much leadership skills. Then providing information to high schoolers that college is possible is so rewarding. Helped me with public speaking and learned to deal with many types of people.
What I wish was different
I honestly wish it was longer!
Advice
To always have a positive attitude and an open mind, you’d be surprise how much you can learn from every person.
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Summer Camp Lead
June - August 2019 • Eugene, OR
What I liked
My supervisors at SAIL were very friendly and met any needs I had while on the clock.
What I wish was different
More recruitment!
Advice
Great experience if you want to go into education or working with high school students.
