As a former College Possible student, I was not 100% sure what to expect when I began my term of service. Being on the outside looking in, I did not think about how much work went into the role of being a coach. The role of a College Coach- or any coach- is not easy work. As a student, I saw my College Coach as someone who was there to check-in, answer any questions I had, and be there to make sure I was getting from semester to semester. I did not know the large number of students they were working with at a given time. I did not realize that it is normal to have a student not respond to you right away or even hang up the phone on you.
Alongside the challenges, there were tons of great experiences I was also not expecting to have. I did not know I would come into this role and form such meaningful, lasting relationships with my peers. I did not know I would make such a difference in the lives of my students, as they shared so much about their personal lives. I did not know I would step outside of my comfort zone as much as I did. I did not know I would feel more comfortable having my thoughts and ideas heard. I did not know I would have so many opportunities to improve and gain skills that will benefit me long after I have left College Possible.
What I do know now is that my term of service taught me things about myself that I did not know I was capable of doing. It brought me new people, new experiences, and new skills that I will hold with me forever. I also know that the students we serve are some of the most strong, ambitious, and talented people I have had the pleasure to work with. They taught me so much and pushed me to be a better version of myself and learn new things to best support them. I would not change anything about my term of service, and I know it will take me far.
-Acacia Balsewicz, College Possible graduate and College Possible coach (2nd term)
