Written by: Thanisha Thambidurai, FCSN Voices Youth Reporter
Graphics by: Christy Ma, FCSN Voices Senior Graphic Artist
Since Mission San Jose High School rising junior Stephanie Yu was six years old, visits to FCSN with her mom were more than just spending time at her mom's workplace. It was her introduction to understanding the special needs community, ultimately prompting her to become an FCSN volunteer. Over the last two years, Stephanie has displayed her leadership through numerous FCSN events, from coaching basketball to fundraising money through the FCSN galas, resulting in her being selected as the 2024 Outstanding Youth Volunteer.
Stephanie's volunteering journey began when she joined as an afterschool basketball coach at the start of high school. Other events she has participated in include the FCSN annual gala, in which she was able to raise money through selling raffle tickets and helping out the FCSN staff. For Stephanie, her proudest moments as a volunteer didn't need to come from assisting with the mainstream events or garnering the most volunteer hours; seeing the smile on a student's face was enough to light up her day. "I'm happy to see that [my students] are always happy and smiling," Stephanie says.
However, Stephanie's path to success wasn't free of struggles. When she joined as an instructor for the after-school basketball program, Stephanie found it difficult to project her voice clearly, having previously been soft-spoken. With time, she gained more confidence in instructing others, allowing for an environment where all the attendees could understand her. Additionally, she wishes she "had more time in her schedule" to volunteer more, "because…[she] can only come once a week during the school year…and if [she] had more time [she] would be able to try new activities."
Stephanie's time as an FCSN volunteer has equipped her for more than just teaching students basketball; it has allowed her to improve many life skills, such as effective communication and punctuality. "[My experience at FCSN] taught me many skills that contributed to what I do outside of volunteering. Communicating with the FCSN teachers and staff…allowed me to improve my own communication skills," remarks Stephanie as she recounts the positive impacts FCSN has had on her life. The lifelong connections made with her fellow teachers and students have provided her with the opportunity to learn from them, filling her with pride that she has been able to help the special needs community.
Most importantly, she offers some advice to anyone hoping to join as an FCSN volunteer in the future: make sure to have fun and not worry too much. The environment has remained welcoming and kind towards Stephanie, a stage for the brilliant experience of self-development and learning.
In her free time, Stephanie enjoys playing basketball and trying new matcha drinks. In the future, she aims to progress in school, score well on the SAT, and hone her basketball and track skills to be a valued team member. Furthermore, Stephanie plans to continue volunteering at FCSN for her remaining high school years and beyond, showcasing her dedication to meaningfully impacting FCSN and the special needs community.
No comments:
Post a Comment