Volunteers are the pillars of the PeerForward community due to their immense dedication to student success. Theresa Carson, a Senior Sourcing Specialist at Amtrak excitedly served as a PeerForward College Coach for the first time this year at our Nazareth University Workshop. Interested in her insight as a first-time volunteer, we caught up with Theresa to learn more about her first experience as a College Coach.
Could you describe your college coaching experience? What did you find rewarding about being a volunteer?
What I found rewarding was engaging with students, who were honest and open. They told me about their families, aspirations, and goals so I could put that information together and connect them to the right schools. I liked the Great Review process; I thought it was amazing. The coaches and leaders came together to talk about the kids, some of whom had the same stories and created a plan for them. That was my favorite part! It was so rewarding tonight. I want to come back next year, and when I come back, I will be ready because of what I’ve learned tonight.
Did anything about being a volunteer College Coach shock or surprise you?
The only thing that surprised me was the financial aid piece. I didn’t think you guys had that, but it was much needed. Let me tell you, these kids don’t know about FAFSA, so I loved the way it was broken down.
How would you describe being a college coach?
I would describe it as something that fulfilled me because I wanted to be an adjunct professor and teach at one point in my life. This experience motivated me to help even more and chime in on the younger people. I feel like I made an impact.
What words of encouragement would you share with Peer Leaders?
I would say to keep inspiring with this program, it’s needed in every state. I think PeerForward needs to be on a bigger platform, everyone should know about this.
