Thank you for joining the Alta family! It means so much to us–your future team and family–to have you here. Your very willingness and commitment to help others is greatly appreciated.
Let me share some of my thoughts on the Alta experience.
First, it is very heart warming when I see my students move from a place of uncertainty to a place of comfort and confidence. That feeling is almost unexplainable. Those "light bulb" moments, after many attempts at understanding the material, are simply amazing. The students themselves gain that sense of accomplishment and empowerment, and as you may have predicted the feeling is mutual. Being told what it is like and actually experiencing that sense of fulfilment, are surprisingly different.
Many adults that are enrolled in our programme have chosen to do so for many reasons. I am so proud that every student that we have interviewed made that first step to join Alta, in their attempt to combat that hurdle of literacy in their lives. You will meet so many personalities, but never forget that like you, it is their willingness and perseverance that keeps them coming to Alta.
As a first year tutor, I have had the privilege of working with true team players. Thus far, these dedicated tutors have been very supportive, understanding, fun and great-spirited. I see the same compassion I have for helping others in them, during our little two hour classroom sessions. I have no doubt in my mind that your team will be any different.
I must admit though, that before making that first call to apply as a tutor, I was in fact unsure of what I was in for. I must reassure you that the thorough training sessions covered all that I was uncertain about...so my advice, ask many questions as you like. I met so many good people during those training sessions. I have had the privilege to meet many role models like you, in helping our society move to a better state one step at a time.
My simple advice is to just enjoy your Alta experience. I hope that my advice and words of comfort aided you as others did for me.
I look forward to reading your piece next year. Wishing you all the best.
Kimlee Somara
First-year volunteer/tutor–Level 2
St George's College
More Info
Alta needs volunteers to teach at classes across Trinidad for academic year Sept 2015-June 2016. Call 624-ALTA (2582)/ 653-4656/ 664-2582 to begin the process of becoming an Alta tutor. Volunteers are unpaid. Volunteer, Donate, Sponsor a student. Find us on Facebook: Alta Trinidad.