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A Volunteer helps to
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Youth to Youth Interview appeared in
AIA Newsletter May 2006
“I now realize I want to get my degree in teaching
English to foreign students and return to Cambodia as a Peace
Corps volunteer” - student in Steppin’ Stone.
Steppin’ Stone is AIA’s innovative Transition to
College Program, which enables youth to concurrently enroll
at BASE and at Peralta Community Colleges.
How did you become involved in Steppin' Stone?
During my senior year, I learned I would not graduate on time
due to classes I failed before I transferred to BASE. A group
of students came into one of my classes at BASE and told us
about Steppin' Stone. It sounded like a good alternative for
me, so I met with the coordinator of the program and learned
about all that Steppin’ Stone had to offer: academic and
vocational counseling, mentorship, and financial assistance
for books and tuition.
What drew you to the
program?
At the time, the main thing that drew me was that I would make
the smooth transition from a high school student to a college
student. I was able to go to a community college while finishing
up my requirements at BASE to get my high school diploma.
What have you enjoyed the most about Steppin' Stone?
I really like all the support that I get from my counselors
and peers. We always meet in a safe place and we give and receive
help when we need it. We talk about the problems that we face
as young adults and a lot of my peers can relate to the struggles
that I face during this time in my life.
What
have you learned from your experience here?
I am actually amazed about how much I have learned about myself.
I have always had a problem with asking for help when I need
it the most and now I am getting good with asking for help!
I have also learned to reach out to others in time of need,
big or small. Everyone who knows me can see my growth and I
hope others will get to experience what I have through Steppin'
Stone. I am now preparing to graduate from Steppin’ Stone
in June with my high school diploma, college classes completed,
a plan to tour local universities this summer and a clear goal
for my future. I now realize I want to get my degree in teaching
English to foreign students and return to Cambodia as a Peace
Corps volunteer.
For more information about Stepping Stone...more
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