What did you like?
I loved being in Mississippi. The is ironic because my greatest fear initially was that I would have to spend the summer in the hot and humid deep South. Fear not. I absolutely adore Oxford, Mississippi. I do miss the ocean, but this little town really has it all. I have learned so much about Oxford, the delta, Greenwood, Jackson, and the civil rights movement. Being apart of this program has really made me realize how little I know about Amherst's history and Portland, Maine's as well. This has been such an incredible experience. Each day has brought something new; new people, interesting discussions, historical places, incredible food, and I always managed to laugh each day. I know some people have nightmare internships - this certainly was not one of those.
What would you improve?
I think the internship went much more smoothly once we realized that two interns should stay at the University with Ben, and one at Holly Springs summer school to help Jake. That was a huge improvement and helped Larissa and connect more and get more work done!
In an ideal world, I think the hours should be 8-4, with lunch - even just 30 minutes. I really didn't like the days we worked until five. Five o'clock was the time that all of the evening activities (yoga, volleyball, racket-ball etc.) got going with the first year teachers and many days we missed out. I realize that is not part of the job, but recreation plays a key role in clearing your mind and connecting with others.
Blogging: I would allow one "freebie" blog for the internship. If for some reason the interns can't get one in, are having writer's block, or are just plain tired of blogging, they should be allow a free-pass just once. And, three blogs per week was just one too many. I know this only happened twice but I was not happy those two times.
What was the best part?
What's not to like? The people really make this program wonderful. Ben Guest - so much fun to work with and I have learned so much from him. Dr. Monroe, Jake Roth, the team teachers... the list goes on and on. I have never met so many wonderful people in such a short time. The speaker series was perhaps the next greatest feature of the internship. I feel like I got a free college course with Prof. Guest and all of the speakers. This was invaluable.
The food, I cannot forget our gastronomic tour with Ben. This has been so much fun. Traveling to new places, trying new things, sitting down and sharing a meal together. In all nine weeks, we only had one sub par meal which I will not describe here - too nauseating to recollect. Top three: Yococa in Exile, Honeybee Bakery, and the farmer's markets!!!
Who was your favorite speaker?
The Barksdales were my favorite. Perhaps it is because they are such gracious and wonderful people, or because the work they do is so noble, in any event, I just couldn't get enough of them. The Barksdale Reading Institute is hugely impressive and both Marian and Claiborne have a wealth of knowledge to share, both without the slightest hint of pretension. It is so difficult to keep my favorite speaker to just one, I loved them all! John T. Edge was another highlight as was Dr. Winkle and Jerry Mitchell.
Would you recommend it to someone else?
If you are looking to challenge you assumptions and devote yourself to service through education - the answer is a whole hearted yes. You can't except an easy summer, a lot will be asked of you, but you will benefit enormously as well. As with any internship, there will be "boring administrative work" - this is just inevitable. But the benefits far outweigh the costs. Do this and you will grow as an individual, a student, and a citizen of this country.
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