What is your educational background?
I graduated from Humboldt State University in Spring of 2018. I have a degree in Anthropology with an emphasis in Biological Anthropology, as well as a minor in Journalism.

In which schools are you in currently serving?
John Cabrillo Elementary School, Susan B. Anthony Elementary School, John Still Elementary School, and Parkway Elementary School.

Why did you choose to do a year of AmeriCorps service?
After graduating college this spring, I knew that I wanted to do something that would allow me to make a positive impact on people’s lives and help build healthier communities. I thought that this would be the perfect opportunity to apply my own passions and interests to creating positive change in the communities that need it the most.

Favorite moment in the classroom so far?
My favorite moment in the classroom so far was having a student at John Cabrillo Elementary tell me that Mondays are her favorite day of the week now because they have Food Literacy class – and it was only the second week we’d ever been to that school! It’s so rewarding seeing how excited the kids get about our program and how eager they are to try new things.

What is the most interesting fruit and/or vegetable you’ve tried this year?
Nopales!

How have you grown, or what skills are you stretching into?
I’ve grown into a more confident leader and public speaker since starting this position. I’ve always been more reserved and quiet, so I’ve had to step out of my comfort zone a little bit to teach these classes and take on a leadership role, but I’m becoming more comfortable with it every day.

What do you plan to do with the skills you gain at Food Literacy Center?
I plan to use the skills that I gain at Food Literacy Center to continue working in nutrition education and/or community health. I want to continue to inspire people to take their health into their own hands, and help people realize that they have the power to help themselves, their communities, and the planet through their food choices!