Advice to future AmeriCorps members from our Impact Managers

At City Year Baton Rouge, our Impact Managers work alongside our AmeriCorps members every day. Here’s their advice for a strong year of service:

Remember why you chose City Year

Your “why” will help you maintain purpose and direction throughout the year. Take time on your own to truly understand the mission and vision of City Year so that you can get a better understanding of the organization you are serving with.

Know your impact

Be your best, so your students can be their best. Always remember that you may not change every single student, but changing one student will provide lasting impact!

Leaders give, not just receive

“To serve is to put something bigger than yourself for the benefit of others first.”

Leadership is not about what a leader can get but about what they are willing to give up (for a year).

Seek to understand before being understood

Listen to understand, constantly seeking ways to gain different perspectives.

Adopt a growth mindset

“If you don’t like something, change it. If you can’t change it, change your attitude.” Go into this experience ‘with an open heart and an open mind.’ This will carry you farther than you could ever imagine.

Keeping an open mind at all times will allow you to grow as a person and leader.

Be FLEXIBLE

Prepare to be unprepared. Come in with a service mindset, and keep it all year!!!

Don’t complain all the time!

Be present and mindful in your service year . . . the year will go by fast.

Think of every challenge as an opportunity to create better! Everything happens for a reason, and it is our responsibility to highlight the positive and to try not to focus our energy on the things we cannot change. When you see problems that you are able to help resolve, be a self-starter and take initiative.

Develop strong relationships

Lean on your fellow teammates for support during tough times.

Network

Take a chance to talk to every person in the corps and staff at least once.

Take care of yourself

Make time for yourself outside of serving – do things that are fun for you!