What attracted you to GSV?

I was attracted to GSV because they seemed like they were legitimately about bettering the lives of the volunteers in addition to the populations they serve. I was drawn in when I saw all of the different kinds of support that they offer that I needed in this point in my life as I graduated college with not a clear understanding where I wanted my life to go. Then, I was sold when I read on the site that GSV is not hung up on making their volunteers ascribe to a certain belief system even though they have deep Catholic roots. The agency actually does practice the actual definition of the word "catholic"- open to all.

Where are you serving/what kind of work are you doing?

I am working at William E. Grady High School in Brighton Beach (near Coney Island) where I am helping run an after school program that gives under credited students the credits they need to graduate in addition to the other recreational programs. Let's just say I am learning amazing amounts about NY's education system.

How have you seen personal growth thus far as a result of your experience (site placement/community) with GSV?

I've seen myself grow into a more confident, independent, knowledgeable person. Instead of this opportunity satisfying my desire to experience new things and meet new people, my GSV experience has fueled my want to do more, learn more, understand more, meet more people, and go more places.

What is the best or most surprising part about your volunteer year so far?

The best part has been moving to and exploring NYC and getting to know all of the other amazing 2010-11 GSVs, especially my fellow Brooklyners. I finally feel like I am surrounded by and have a network of ecclectic, inspiring, genuine, caring, and smart people. It's great to have such people surrounding me, being that I am so far away from my snowy home environment.

Any advice for someone considering post-graduate service?

Life should be an adventure- you have so much more time to settle down in life. This year after you put down those college books is such a formidable year and will shape the way you live the rest of your life. Volunteering and getting to know what life should be all about will give you the strong base to live a healthy, harmonious, and fulfilling life. Volunteering may not be for everyone- but if it was, wouldn't this be a great Earth to live on?