Knowing what to do comes by a process called discernment. part of that process is listening to the stories of others. So listen (well, read….)

My Experience

by Stephanie Williams, Vincentian Service Corps – West

Working at St. Vincent School has been a whirlwind of successes and failures, happiness, and frustration, epiphanies, and confusion. In the last few months, I have gotten used to the constant changes in schedules and last minute tasks. I cannot count the number of times I have come into work with a schedule and layout for the day that never comes to fruition. The unpredictability of the job always exposes me to new challenges and skills. I might assist in a new classroom because of an
absent teacher or teaching assistant or spend the entire day in the office as the receptionist.

Just when I think I have a clear understanding of things and a handle on the students, I am fiercely thrown back into reality.

The start of the new year was also the start of a new job at school. I started teaching mythology to 3rd-8th graders in preparation for the National Mythology Exam in March. By far, this has been the biggest challenge due to classroom management and planning weekly lessons. I know for sure that teaching is not in my future, but the experience has taught me more about myself. I have definitely been forced out of my comfort zone and have improved my patience, assertiveness, and understanding of the students. However, I am still adapting and changing my repertoire based on the students and the feel of the class. The most consistent part of the day is interacting with the students. I enjoy being in the classroom, doing yard duty and tutoring students during daycare. It is refreshing to hear the honest opinions, concerns, problems, and stories of students.

With the different personalities of each student and each grade, there is always someone to correct, someone to praise, and someone to comfort. For me, the most relaxing part of the day is my fifteen-minute walk to the bus stop after work. Walking in the neighborhood, reflecting on my day, and listening to music on the ride are the activities that calm my racing mind after a long day.

• What did you learn about yourself by listening to Stephanie?