This is my first full week working as an intern at the Bethlehem Center of Nashville (I worked Thursday and Friday of the previous week). I have been here for such a short time, but already it has opened my eyes to a whole new culture and way of life. Every morning, I work in the GED program with Mrs. Jaynie helping teenage to middle-aged adults learn the necessary skills in order to pass their GED test.
The first day, I worked with a man from Mexico who struggled on his reading section of his test. He missed several questions, but going back and re-reading the passage with him, it turns out his main problem was simple vocabulary words. When our two hour tutoring session was over, the man was so grateful. I realized how privileged I am to have the exceptional education that I have received through Franklin Road Academy, and I am particularly thankful to God for giving me this education so that I may turn around and help others.
The second half of my day is spent in the “Summer Discovery” program which is basically the 6-11 year old child care program at Bethlehem Center. There are about 28 kids there a day, and my job as a counselor is basically to play with them and make sure they are safe and happy. It is so rewarding when I walk in the gym and receive hugs from all of the children. Slowly, I am learning their names – I don’t have them all yet!
I have not been at Bethlehem Center long enough to see a significant change in the children, but I am so excited to spend the rest of my summer with these kids – they’re great! I love spending my afternoons at Discovery, and am very hopeful for the rest of the summer.
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