I went to my first day of work on Tuesday and it was explained to me exactly what I’ll be doing in the 6 weeks that I’m here. My main role will be going into the slums of Baroda and teaching kids ranging from 10-18 whatever I choose. Yep that’s right, Andy in the slums of India, if someone had told me that’s what I would be doing this summer then I never would have believed them. I’ll be developing lesson plans for them in order to promote social growth in the slums which has been a large problem for them. Children grow up there with little inspiration and are resigned to the status of their parents, a problem that Shishu Milap, the organization that I’m working for, is trying to prevent. I’m looking at things like gender equality to pollution or computer skills as possible lessons to show them.
My first day of actual teaching is on Monday and I’ll admit I’m really nervous. The kids will speak no English, forcing me to rely 100% on a translator that will be there with me. For my first lesson I’ve created a lesson on culture. I’ll start by talking about myself and American culture (food, school, sports, family etc) and then I’ll tell them to get in groups and determine what they think their culture is; what it means to be an Indian. There’s lots of uncertainty for me, because I don’t know how long this will take, if the kids will enjoy it, if it’s even helpful and so on.
The first slum that I’m going to is the worst one. It is very run down, with children running all around and destitution everywhere. Called Ramdemagar, it’s one of the biggest slums in all of Vadodara, so I hope I come back in one piece.
Whoa, Andy! Wish I had known you were going to teach them "gender equity", I would have given you a quiz! Seriously, hope it's going well, you haven't written so you are probably exhausted. or you didn't make it out of the bad slum. Keep up the good work. My law partner Valerie is a former third grade teacher and I am sure would love to give you tips if you need. :)
ReplyDeleteIt's probably a good thing that you didn't know what you would be doing before you got there. (If we knew a lot of things about our futures, we might just be paralyzed...don't you think?!) Did you ever see the documentary, Born into Brothels? It's a great story about a woman who teaches kids in Calcutta about photography. As a result, both she and the children are changed. In your case, I suspect that these kids are going to love you! Just like the other people who have been excited to meet a white guy! And your idea of starting with culture is great! Better get some Justin Bieber to play for them, tho! :-) Anyway...what you are doing is awesome! I hope that you continue to soak it all up. You are in our thoughts! (Catharine = Sarah's mom)
ReplyDeleteAndy! I am so excited for you and the incredible opportunity you have to teach and inspire these kids who need it so much. Sure it's nerve-racking, there will be mess-ups, etc but know just by interacting with these kids you will leave a huge impression on them. Look forward to hearing about it. Good luck!
ReplyDeleteOk so I've been busy the past few days and I got behind on my blog reading. Therefore, I will be reading and commenting on these posts in order.
ReplyDeleteI know this is a totally new experience for you, but I also know you'll do great. After reading previous posts about your celebrity status in India, I know the kids will definitely listen to and soak up every word you have to say. I can't wait to read more about this internship!
-Sarah