Camille Pottillo served as a graduation coach in the Literacy AmeriCorps program in 2022-2023. She reflected on her experience and shared remarks at the Coalition’s Annual meeting:
“Before graduating from college, I made a conscious decision to dedicate the next year of my life to giving back to the community before embarking on the next chapter of my career.
Fast forward and I was moving to sunny South Florida with no friends, family, or knowledge of what was to come next. Initially uncertain about how I would do, or how this would align with my future aspirations, I quickly realized that the skills I was acquiring and utilizing every day were invaluable. Thanks to the Literacy Coalition staff for playing a part in our individual journeys and successes. From the first day I stepped into the Literacy Coalition, I quickly realized that you all had an unwavering love and passion for making this community a better place.
AmeriCorps 2022-2023 Panther Ridge Conservation Center
Assigned to serve as a graduation coach at Johnson Scholars in partnership with Take Stock in Children, I learned not only the teaching skills needed to be a graduation coach, but they nurtured the personal growth of me and my fellow AmeriCorps members.
I not only learned how to step out of my comfort zone, but how to view life from a different lens. This year of service taught me to appreciate everything I have in my life. I met individuals from diverse backgrounds, each with their own unique stories and struggles. It was a humbling experience to be welcomed into their lives, to listen to their stories and to provide support in whatever way I could. AmeriCorps Members Gleaning 2022-2023
I worked with 127 seniors who graduated and will now attend colleges, trade schools and universities all over the country including Stanford, University of Florida, Northwestern, Emory and Florida State.
One student recently sent me a message to affirm my impact. “I wanted to thank you for being my college coach this year. I miss you. You always put a smile on my face and I always got so excited when I heard my name over the intercom calling me to the media center. Thank you for always making me laugh and encouraging me to do my best. I am so happy I had you as my coach!!”
