Classes have begun, and College Possible AmeriCorps coaches across the country are busy forming new relationships and learning about students’ academic goals. At College Possible Minnesota, we are lucky to welcome back 10 returning coaches and we’re grateful they have chosen to dedicate another year to supporting students. These returning coaches are an invaluable resource for the 34 new coaches joining the corps this year.
Meet Oluwaseun, or Seun, Williams. Seun is a Flagship coach working with students at Park Center High School in Brooklyn Park, Minnesota, helping the students she serves prepare for their ACT tests, narrowing down their top 6 colleges to apply for, proofreading college applications, and so much more. She attended Hamline University for undergraduate school and grew up in Brooklyn Park, Minnesota. This year, Seun is excited to continue building on the skills she developed last year. Here’s what she had to say about why she renewed her service with College Possible.
Why did you renew your AmeriCorps term of service as a College Possible coach?
I renewed for my second year of service because of my cohort from last year. One of the students said that they wanted me to continue for a second year. I wanted to make sure they all have the resources they need to succeed. I want all the students I serve to thrive in the colleges they choose to attend. I am excited to see them succeed, reach their goals, and start in the field they are interested in.
Why are you passionate about College Possible? Why is College Possible important?
I am passionate about College Possible because of the work we do to help students get to and though college. We provide the resources that they need to support themselves through their college experience. College Possible is important because we have plenty of students that may not have a lot of support or may need more support with applying to college, and without programs like College Possible, it is difficult to find out where to start with college exploration. College Possible is important because every student should have equal opportunities to succeed and get into the college that fits their needs.
What is your favorite memory from last year?
My favorite memory is from Launch!, our high school graduation event. I helped with the student appreciation project; I was on the committee and helped with editing the video we made for students. Being able to see everyone’s reactions to the project was very special. I was also able to take a group picture of the seniors I worked with before they went off to college.
Do you have any stories with students that you’d like to share?
One of the most memorable stories I have with my students was doing ACT Jeopardy. My students were nervous about taking the American College Testing (ACT) exam the following month so I wanted to have an interactive game in which they can feel more confident in their test strategies for the ACT. I could tell that all the students had a great time during the game.
What’s the best thing you did this summer?
The best thing I did this summer was go on a trip with my family. This was our first family trip in over 10 years, and I really appreciated it. Because of this vacation, I was able to meet all my cousins in Belgium and I met my cousin in France for the first time. I also enjoyed walking in the parks because they were huge and had lots of ponds.
What do you like to do when you aren’t working?
• When I am not working, I like to hang out with my friends. We typically find either a new restaurant to try or go to an escape room. Another thing that I like to do is watch shows on Netflix. The most recent show I watched was ‘Grace and Frankie’.
“Seun is an exceptional coach and leader at College Possible Minnesota and Park Center Senior High” says Senior Program Manager James Corbett. “Her student-centered coaching, empathy, and enthusiasm stands out to all the students she serves and all who serve with her. As a returning coach, Seun is already stepping up as a shining example of our coaching model. We are thrilled to have Seun return for another year of service and know that she will continue to have a lasting impact.”
Are you interested in helping talented, driven students from under-represented backgrounds achieve their goal of a college degree? Check out our open AmeriCorps positions!
