gReEtInGs...

Volunteer's are a huge part of AYC programs.   In recognition of this, on today's BLOG we feature one international volunteer's AYC experience, enjoy...

At the conclusion of a 2-month volunteer program, I am confident that no experience in my life has yet matched this. Teaching 5 mornings, and some afternoons each week, I have watched my students grow in confidence and ability. From the onset, they were extremely eager to learn. Greeting me each morning with a hug and the inevitable question, "School?!" their thirst for learning the english language, with everything from body parts to colors has never let up - once - this entire trip. Using music as a means of breaking down language barriers, I feel its universal application has been in full force during my stay. The kids have learned the solfegge music using hand signals as pitch reminders.  From what I have observed, walking around humming the basic 7 note scale is both a source of pride and ownership for them. In addition to music, body language and physical gestures have taken on a grand new meaning.  As soon as my tiny amount of Amharic has been used up, we all resort to hand movement and sharades to eventually succeed in communicating! The following pic captures a typical afternoon at AYC, complete with drawing and art to take  a break from the english.



However, no class would be complete without fine-tuning our one and only english song, "If you're happy and you know it."
Here is me and the kids hanging out after class.



In truth, I will greatly miss this community. The energy of the children and their unrelenting desire to learn will stay with me. As I leave, my one hope is that I have taught them as much about language, music and life as they have taught me.
My thanks to all for such an opportunity.
Good night from Awassa
-Liz

One Love, One Fight.