At the beginning of each school year, teachers and administrative staff carefully select students to be a part of several groups. These students are usually chosen because of their good grades and aptitude for leadership. There are health brigades, environment brigades, civil defense brigades, school police, and general classroom brigadiers. One student at the school, … More Swearing-In Season
As a Youth Development Volunteer, I spend most of my time in classrooms, chatting with students about leadership, the importance of volunteering, how to plan for their future, etc. It’s definitely valuable work, but there’s something about getting my hands dirty that makes me really feel like I’m working hard, doing something of greater importance. … More Getting my hands dirty
As I stood in the shade, talking to my site mate’s host sister, I asked her about Peruvian customs related to death, funerals, etc. I was astonished that the funeral was happening so quickly. I told her that in the States, we usually wait a few days, sometimes a week. I couldn’t think of an … More A Peruvian Funeral
As two teachers wrapped two other teachers from head to toe in toilet paper, I stood behind the cheering crowd of students, amused and reflecting on my own high school experience and the teachers who helped shape me. This friendly, funny competition was only a small part of the all day celebration of teachers for … More Teachers and Toilet Paper Mummies
As I cautiously made my way through the muddy streets of Olmos, I realized something had changed within me. With each careful step I took, I noticed the eyes staring, curious as to how I would navigate the trenches of mud and slippery mounds. Not only could I feel the gawking, I heard their conversations. … More Embracing the Gringa
Brittany McGee 