Reflection On Service Learning

Self-Reflection Journal - Midterm Service Learning Hours

This reflection chronicles an interesting segment of interacting, interfacing, and hands on experience gleaned from 14 hours of service learning while assigned to Wenonah High School. Wenonah High School is 4 year public school located in northwest Birmingham, Alabama. Wenonah has a population consisting of majority Afro-American students, which the vast number are inner city populates and reside in the surrounding area. The demographics, location, and attending students comprise a core which is rich in tradition, yet lacking in racial diversity and ethnic blending.

A typical service learning day for me begins by ringing a buzzer which alerts the school officials of my presence and desire to gain admittance. Recent high school shootings and the escalated crime rampant in the area leaves school officials with few alternatives other than these meager attempts at security. Upon the security door granting me access I walk through a metal detector at the entrance and proceed to the front office. Upon front office arrival I sign in on their log book stating my name, business/school affiliation, and

Patience in the understanding where the majority of these student come from. Patience from the perspective that Wenonah High School is the safe haven for many of them battling family dysfunction and substandard living. Self-reflection in the fact that I was once in these same shoes, shared the same mindset, and cared little for career planning. Self-reflecting in the fact of how arduous my journey has been because I was overly defiant, rebellious, and loathed authority figures. I liked the experience of listening to the heart-cry of youth. I loved the hands on approach of seeing various glimmers of hope arise when I have shared bits and pieces about life and educational