“This is my fifth year working at the Y. When I was 16, I applied to be a substitute in the Child Care classrooms. I have been babysitting since I was 12 years old and I love working with kids. I found the application online and then was called in for an interview. Working here actually inspired me to get my teaching degree. It wasn’t something I was planning to do when I graduated from high school. I love it. I’m now an upcoming junior in college majoring in theater and early childhood education. I’ve been working with one of the kindergarten classes this year and am looking forward to hopefully becoming either a kindergarten or first grade teacher. This past year, working with the kindergarteners, really solidified that I’m pursuing what I want to be doing. Working hands on with the kids, it teaches you so much more than you learn through your classes. I love how curious the kids are and how they want to learn from you. I love when their faces light up when you teach them something. Their enthusiasm and passion is what drives me. Plus, ever since I started working at the Y, I really have felt like I belong here. There’s a strong sense of community; everyone knows my name and I know everyone’s name. I feel really comfortable here. I’m looking forward to this summer as well. I’m going to be working with the Little Sprouts half-day camp for kids ages 3 to 5. It’s going to be super fun! We’re going to have nine different weeks with nine different themes like outer space, under the sea, the carnival and everything messy with finger painting, splatter painting and shaving cream – which the kids always love. I’m very excited for this summer and all we have to offer.”