Frequently Asked Questions

When I describe my job as an ASC to people, they often don't "get" it. Here are some FAQ's and their answers... or at least, the ones I know:

Q: "Are you part of AmeriCorps?"
A: No. I found Organization X through the AmeriCorps website, and originally applied as an AmeriCorps volunteer. But because the government cut funding from this AmeriCorps job through this particular organization, the position is no longer affiliated with AmeriCorps as of this year. However, I recieve nearly the same (slightly smaller) education award, and I perform all the same tasks as last year's AmeriCorps volunteer ASC.

Q: "Do you work with kids who are 'on the cusp'?"
A: A lady asked me this, verbatim, when I took the girls to a community service project at a food pantry. It was very awkward not only because of how she phrased it, but also because she was only addressing me while one of the girls was standing right next to me. When people (particularly white people) see a program that serves 8 black girls, they often jump to false conclusions. These kids are not here because they have behavioral issues (they don't). They are accepted into Organization X because of their academic potential. They are smart and motivated. Most of them are in the program because growing up, they didn't have the resources or stability to go as far as they have the potential to.

Q: "Why do you live with teenagers?"
A: The main goal of Organization X is to improve the scholars' education, but it also emphasizes the development of the whole person (a very Jesuit sentiment). We live with teenagers so that we can create an environment that will help them learn how to take responsibility for themselves, as well as value community. They have chores every day, study from 7-9 most days, and family dinners every night. The structure helps them stay focused, calm and happy (which makes it sound like a cult... but it's good for them!). The newer scholars are definitely resistant to the strict schedule, but the ones who have been in the program for a few years appreciate it.

Q: "I would hate working with teenagers."
A: Ok this isn't a question, but it's definitely something people tell me frequently! Teenagers can be frusturating, but so can any age group. One reason I like working with teenagers is because I can reason with them. Also, teenagers (at least these teenagers, especially the older ones) realize that I am an actual person with needs, not just someone who is there to serve them. In certain ways, we can relate to each other as adults. I'd take that over a crying baby any day of the week. Although, even as I type this, I have an ominious feeling that teenagers and crying babies are not actually as different from one other as I think...


Got any other questions? Let me know, I'd be happy to answer them.

--Rebecca