Andy C.

  • Volunteer — Tanzania, Peace Corps

My primary role is teaching math at the local secondary school. I work with about 250 students across two grade levels, so most of my week is spent preparing lessons, teaching, grading notebooks, and tutoring students who need extra help. I am also the school librarian, advisor to the entrepreneurship club, and play left back for the teacher’s football team— horribly, I must add, as I’m responsible for 50% of the goals scored against us. Beyond the school, I’ve collaborated with my community counterparts on four secondary projects—each community-driven and addressing a critical student need.

The relationships I’ve built with my students and fellow teachers have been the most enjoyable part of my service. Over the past two years, I’ve interacted with more than 500 students at the secondary school, and spending time with them inside and outside the classroom has been a lot of fun. I’m really grateful to have been part of their lives during such an important time. With the teachers, I’ve gotten to know many of them well—there are only 12 of us—and their constant support and friendships have meant a lot to me throughout my service.

Read more about Andy’s volunteer experience with Peace Corps.