Where the Green Palm Grows

Hello everyone! Thanks to Dave for starting this blog, as I think it will prove a really helpful outlet for venting, brainstorming, collaborating, etc.

I suppose, since I don't really know either Ambika or Haley, that I should introduce myself a bit! My name's Amanda Ward and I'm originally from two hours north of NYC (little town called Wingdale), so you might imagine what a huge change my move to Baton Rouge has been. I was accepted 5DL and southern schools start early, so I only had three weeks to graduate, move to New Jersey with my fiance, take care of any lingering logistical issues back at home, and start my prework. Needless to say, it's been insanely hectic and I haven't finished my work; but fortunately TFA has been lenient and generally helpful for those of us in such a tight situation.

Anyway, I joined TFA in the hopes of teaching in Brooklyn so I could stay somewhat central to my family and friends, but still have my own life in the city. Ever since I heard about the program my freshman year, I've been sort of peripherally interested in joining but didn't really give it any serious thought. After doing some theatre-as-community-outreach work with low-income students in Massachusetts, I decided flat out that I wanted to contribute to the expansion of educational opportunities for all students. TFA seemed like a fantastic outlet for a number of reasons, including the alternate certification for non-Ed minors like me and the suggestion that creative teaching methods were highly encouraged. It's funny that I ended up in South Louisiana teaching Special Education since I put those two things down as a "they'll place me there if they need me that much" thing on my application. It isn't what I would have ever expected, but I feel really blessed that this has come to me (even if I am scared to death).

I decided to check in today because my mother and I just drove through the night from New Jersey to Baton Rouge and I wanted to let you all know that I'm gearing up for my Induction on Tuesday!!! I live in a place with palm trees!!!! I can't wait to hear more about all of your journeys. Best of luck!!

~Amanda