What are you up to now after service? What inspires you about the work you’re doing now?

I am the Volunteer Engagement Coordinator at Yolo Food Bank, where I completed my College Corps service. I am constantly inspired by the community that surrounds me. The resiliency of our food recipients, the generosity of our volunteer base, and the dedication of this organization inspire me to further strengthen the community.

Do you have any long-term career/educational goals (“a dream” job)?

My long-term career goal is to work in the public health sector. While I’m not sure what that looks like yet, I know that I want to maintain a career path that centers on underserved communities and their strengths. More specifically, I would love to contribute to health programs that support BIPOC youth development and decrease their chances of negative outcomes (ex. school-to-prison pipeline).

“ Before participating in this program, I did not have a clear sense of direction for what my life would be like post-undergrad. The professional development and career skills I gained through this program helped me establish a clear path for myself.”

How did College Corps influence your next steps in your career or education?  

College Corps directly impacted the next steps of my career post-undergrad. This program got my foot in the door of the nonprofit industry and led me directly to the position I work in now. Before participating in this program, I did not have a clear sense of direction for what my life would be like post-undergrad. The professional development and career skills I gained through this program helped me establish a clear path for myself. 

What advice would you give to a current College Corps fellow? 

Take advantage of all that this program has to offer and build those connections! I sought mentorship from my on-campus College Corps advisor and my community host site supervisor and could not be more grateful for their guidance. This program is meant to build the next generation of community leaders, and I sincerely hope that every College Corps fellow embraces that concept with the support of their mentors. 

What is something you did during your service that makes you feel proud?   

Seeing the relief on people’s faces as they received the food and resources needed to sustain their families filled me with pride, as I understood the weight of what this service meant to so many people. Simultaneously, this feeling of pride kept me grounded in the work I was doing in the community. Having the privilege to make a positive difference in someone’s life kept me motivated and is the reason why I continue this work. 

➡️  Be like Andrea and become a College Corps Fellow! Learn more & apply.

➡️  Stay connected as a California Service Corps alum on the Alumni Network website.