Serving, Teaching, and Learning

The following is a reflection written by Kim Dennis, one of this year's North House Volunteers.

Just a year ago now, I was a college student weeks away from graduating Loyola Marymount University, participating in all the senior events that I could, mourning the closing of an amazing four years of college, and safe in the knowledge that I had life plans for at least a year: Amate House. I was excited - felt called to do service, and was ready to move on to the next stage of my life. Also, the thought that I had a plan for a year was comforting amidst the panic of friends not knowing what they would be doing with their futures; but a voice still lingered in the back of my mind, saying “I don’t really know what I want to do either.”

And then before I knew it, there I was in orientation, going on amazing summer adventures, and acquainting myself to the unwelcome humidity of Chicago with time flying by at ridiculous pace. I was having a blast - still not knowing what I wanted to do “when I grow up,” but simply ready to dive into my year of service. I was content just enjoying the summer orientation time when I was introduced to housemates, social justice issues, and the lifestyle that I was to lead for the year.

Now here is a little background on the decision of my placement site, St. Martin de Porres High School. Throughout college, I sided with my better judgment in asserting that I did not want to become a teacher: I would make no money, get no recognition, and didn't know that I could handle the kids. And so obviously, I decided to work at a high school - just to be sure. You see, I want to be in love with what I do, to feel my experiences giving me back life as I pour myself into them, and I needed time to see if teaching could do that. So, I started the first day of high school totally not knowing what to expect. My initial position was to be a member of the counseling staff - things have changed a bit, and I found myself starting and advising a school newspaper, editing college and scholarship essays for students, teaching ACT prep courses, and subbing classes. This year I have been challenged on a daily basis by students, and at times, myself; but I have also grown more than I could have imagined.

A year at Amate is what you make of it - I stand now, nearing the end of the program (a sad development), but I have decided that I want teaching to be my next big adventure. I am a member of the newest cohort of teachers in Loyola Marymount University’s teacher service group, called PLACE (Partners in Los Angeles Catholic Education) Corps. I will teach at an inner city Catholic school in LA for the next two years, while going to school, and living in community; in the end, I will have teaching experience, and my Master’s in education (debt free). There is no replacement for the valuable growth and insights I gained as a result of working at St. Martin de Porres, I am so grateful for that; and living in community has taught me much about myself in relationship with others, so that I know I will be a better roommate in the future.  But above all, I know I will be a better teacher in the future because I know how to better serve others through this year of living the values of Amate, or love in action.