Shouayee Vue, BTC Class of 2018 alum and 2018 Summer Session Teaching Fellow, shares her thoughts on Breakthrough in her interview below!
1. How did you become aware of Breakthrough, and why did you decide to get involved as a Teaching Fellow?
I was first introduced to Breakthrough by Ashley Cooper, BTC staff member, when I was in 6th grade. The way she explained Breakthrough with immense energy as well as the genuine concern she showed for my future really stuck with me during my next six years in the program. I decided to get involved even more in Breakthrough because something inside urged me to give back to the community that I loved the most. Because Breakthrough was the place where I was able to find aspects of my identity and become confident in life, I wanted to contribute my energy into this positive learning environment and continue the magic that happens over the summer.
2. In what ways has your teaching experience at Breakthrough helped you develop and grow as an individual?
One major takeaway from my teaching experience is that giving up on others is not an option. This has had a huge impact on my lifestyle because I struggle with the “Persist” code. When something doesn’t go well, I try to avoid conflict. But as a teacher, I can’t give up on my students no matter how difficult it gets. Keeping good relations with my students and just being present in their lives is so important in developing growth that there is no time to be pushing people aside. This has flowed into my personal life where I’ve learned more about my relationships and how important it is to see those I care about daily. I have matured and created ways to find time to catch up with family and friends because relationships are valuable. Giving up on others is detrimental to relationships and I shouldn’t lose them when they are trying just as hard to reach similar goals in life.
3. What advice or suggestions would you give for someone else who wants to get involved with Breakthrough or apply to be a Teaching Fellow?
Be prepared to cry. It may be tears of sadness when classes don’t go well, tired tears from running around all day, or tears of joy when you see your students improve so much and stand on stage for Celebration. Great things aren’t meant to be easy, and I am glad Breakthrough is the hardest thing I will accomplish in my life because I know the outcomes will be the best.
4. Where do you see yourself ten years down the line?
In ten years, I see myself advocating for my beliefs and morals. I will continue to be a person with a voice, more confident with my identity, and more aware of what has been going on around me. In ten years, I will have a support system full of friends and family who will all share a goal of living successfully. I may not be the richest, but I envision myself to be content with my life because I will have gone on a path that I’ve created for myself.
