Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs

CITIZEN EXCHANGES –
YOUTH PROGRAMS DIVISION
Home > Citizen Exchanges > Youth Programs > Eurasia > Future Leaders Exchange (FLEX) Program

Miriam
Georgia
Spartanburg, SC
South Carolina School for the Deaf and Blind
Spartanburg High School

I was very happy when I first received the information about the Flex Civic Education Workshop. I have always wanted to do a volunteer project, especially after I arrived in the United States. However, I have never tried to find something where I felt I could make an impact.

After reading the American Council information I began to think seriously about a project that would benefit from my knowledge, experience, and abilities. After speaking with my host parents, resident assistant, and coordinator I came to the conclusion that the answer is tutoring a student in Braille. This is a service that I had previously done in Georgia (my home country). I had never realized that this was something special. I would just help my friends and classmates whenever they needed me.

With the help of my advisors, I have been working with a ten-year-old girl named Taylor Ruth. Taylor is in the fifth grade at the South Carolina School for the Deaf and Blind. We reside at the same campus. We met each other and began our work. Taylor is a very bright, smart girl and we are establishing a nice friendship.

We both enjoy working together three times each week for one hour. I was advised that Taylor was at Grade Level Two in Braille but after our first session I discovered that she is only at Grade Level One. I was very pleased to learn that Taylor is such a quick learner that she will move to Grade Level Two very soon. My plans are to continue tutoring Taylor for the remainder of the Flex year.

After I return to my home country of Georgia I will be continuing my efforts in Braille tutoring. This service will give me invaluable experience working with youth. It will also improve my personal Braille and English skills. In doing this I will learn more about my abilities and myself.

With regard to my impact on my fellow citizens of Georgia, I hope to break down the barriers that currently exist between the disabled and the non-disabled. Historically, Georgians have not been given the same opportunities afforded disabled citizens from other countries. I sincerely hope that my efforts will have an impact on the quality of life of our disabled citizens, now, and for future generations.

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