Claire FollisClaire Follis is an Elementary Education and Economics dual major from Lake Jackson, Texas. She volunteers with SOAR as well as Habitat for Humanity. She plans to continue her education at Texas A&M for a graduate degree in Political Science, and pursue a career in education politics.
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Student Voices with Claire Follis
On Why She Enjoys Volunteering at SOAR
I decided to go back to SOAR because when I walked into the classroom every week I felt pure joy. Having the opportunity to make a difference in these kids lives, even as small of a difference as I made, was an incredible feeling. However, as much as I thought I was impacting the kids’ lives, I knew that they were making an even greater change in me. I think as a future teacher it’s important to develop the skills to communicate with all types of people. When I first started SOAR, I realized there were times when I was lacking in that area. As the semester progressed I was able to better communicate, be open minded, and learn how to help others. It helped me realize that not everyone had the opportunities I had as a kid, and that there was life going on around me off campus. It was very eye opening, and really put me in my place. As much of a hassle it was to go all the way out to IPA, the 20 minute bus ride out there was worth being able to interact with the kids. I knew from the first week at SOAR that I wanted to continue the program long after EDUC 201 ended. Getting out into the community and being able to get a taste of what my future career will be was so fulfilling. Every day that I go to SOAR, I am given more confidence in the idea that I am going into the right profession. Serving the community around me has given me so much fulfillment and joy. I’m so happy to be able to make a difference in these children’s lives, as well as grow with them.