My Service's Impact On Me

Author: Brittany Thomas

I have yet to write a story about how my service has impacted me over the last 3 years. ArtistCorps has probably been one of the best things to ever happen to me. I have learned, experienced, and grown so much as a person over the last 3 years. ArtistCorps opened up a world to me that I didn’t know was there before. 

Every day that I am at service I have the opportunity to learn more about life and ask (far too many) questions. What’s the meaning? What’s our purpose? What’s our impact? How do I help? How do I change my perspective? How do I meet you where you are? How do I connect more? 

I’ve had the chance to watch some students grow from 6th grade to 8th grade. I’ve read books about the impact that a child’s home life can have on their education. I’ve tried to bring a smile to the face of a kid who’s trying to play trumpet while crying from being bullied. I’ve seen young boys and girls become confident and kind leaders in the classroom with just the right words of encouragement. I’ve had to learn that this student might not want to talk to me just yet because they don’t trust me. I’ve read, seen, and heard about too many kids who’s basic needs aren’t being met at home but yet we expect them to be happy and engaged while playing an instrument. 

Even through the hardest days, I was able to learn something. When I didn’t notice it, the students were teaching me more about life than I was teaching them. One of the most important things I’ve learned is that patience, with everyone and everything, is so important. We sometimes expect people to meet us where we are instead of the opposite. Every single person has a history and experiences that effect them mentally and emotionally. That being said, always remember that when someone might not react the way you would like them to or if you don’t understand where they are coming from, thats why. You have the opportunity to be a role model for everyone around you. Always be kind and genuine. The smallest gesture can create great waves. Sometimes you think you aren’t making an impact. Stay awhile and you’ll start to notice that you are. Offering a helping hand can become a domino effect when you least expect it. Listen more and talk less. Be kind to yourself and to others.

I am so grateful for all the experiences I’ve had through my service and the chance to become more knowledgeable. We always talk about being lifelong learners at our art, but I also hope to be a lifelong learner at connecting more with those around us.