Submitted by Ryann Tanap '12

Identity Ingredient #1: Service and Community Engagement

I am on the brink of self-discovery - or so I would hope. Over the past few years, I have struggled with a very common identity crisis that many of my peers face at one point or another. Questions like, “Who Am I?” and “What is My Purpose?” arise so often, and even more so for those anticipating Commencement (May 13th, 2012 -- yes, I’ve been keeping track).

Well, I’m proud to say that in my last year here at the College, I have realized the answers to these questions. Over my next three blog posts, I’ll give you my three most valuable ingredients to my own identity (which I have proudly conceptualized with the help of my friends, family, and mentors). I hope that you too will identify what elements or passions drive you, as they are most helpful in deciding what you want out of life.

The summer before this semester started, I was blessed with the opportunity to work in New York City; I took advantage of every second that I spent there. With the help of the Office of Community Engagement and Scholarship, I received a Community Engagement Grant to pursue a unique experience in the Big Apple. As a summer Associate Intern with The All Stars Project, I learned that successful non-profits are actually quite multifaceted business organizations. It just so happens that the All Stars Project has been growing tremendously since it’s inception in 1981. They were not impacted by the Global Financial Crisis of 2008, unlike other non-profits. With The All Stars, I learned the essence of community organizing and street campaigning. While the experience was grueling, it showed me just how far I could push myself - and for the record, I was one of those street canvassers who spoke to complete strangers on the street, asking for financial support for inner-city youth programs. However, I had quite a positive experience; we were not “begging for money”. Rather, we were inviting community members to support the All Stars’ free, cutting-edge programs for those who would not otherwise experience performing arts and professional etiquette. It amazed me at how much people were willing to give. Our summer goal was to raise at least $38,000; we raised just over $46,000. Deep within, human beings are very compassionate people. You just have to give them the opportunity to do so. I am certain that this experience has confirmed my passion for service and giving back to a community, even if I wasn’t expecting it.

I have arrived at identity component number one: I am committed to community engagement and service. No matter what career or future plans I pursue, I know that there is nothing more fulfilling than giving back to those in need. And I know that I will use my experiences with The All Stars (and other non-profits) in order to grow and follow my dreams.

Coming back to the College this semester, I have been actively applying for several experiences for after graduation. And while it is a nerve-wracking process, I’m excited to see what options arise. So, If you’re interested in the non-profit sector, education, or community organizing, I highly recommend that you look into these programs and organizations. They are great for gaining experience if you’re searching for a bigger sense of independence, motivation, and the drive to change the world.

Teach for America
MATCH Corps
Green Corps
AmeriCorps
Peace Corps

I myself am in the process of applying. And while this does open the floodgates for more competition, I only think it’s fair that you also have the same opportunities that I do. One Tribe, One Family, right? So, what are you waiting for? Go for it!

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Submitted by Adriana Green ‘12

Just….Average

Being diverse is a relationship between yourself and the world. If you immerse yourself into society, especially ours as multicultural as it is, you will have experiences to share, lessons to learn and people to love.

EVERYONE IS DIVERSE.

Sometimes the diversity dialogue can be alienating. Now that the tides are turning and being ethnic is the new ‘in’ people who feel, or are told, they are not diverse don’t feel as special.

But it’s not true.

You are as diverse as your experiences with the world around you. If you are white, or average height, average features, just…average. Then rethink yourself. Rethink how you think of yourself, because to me? You are different. To someone in Korea or Costa Rica or Australia who thinks they have average height, average features, just…average. You are very different.

Diversity is not a hierarchy. It’s not a prop or a tool. It’s not something that can be given or taken away. It’s who you are at the core of yourself and even that forever, always changes. Accept your diversity WHATEVER form it’s in and you’ll find it’s very hard to be just…average.