Over the past 6 months, I have been challenged to think about what students in under-resourced schools need most in order to succeed.  We have worked in a range of schools, and have come to understand privilege and disadvantages in various ways.  For students at Railway Girls High School in Secunderabad, barriers may include lack of technological access in the home.  On the other hand, at Elurupadu High School in West Godavari District, drainage problems in the community may prevent students from even attending school.  These experiences have reminded me of the need to think flexibly as an educator and programmer.

As I’ve taught non-traditional skills, I’ve been able to connect with students in a way that other teachers cannot.  Be it due to the fact that I’m young or that I’m ‘foreign,’ I’ve been warmed by students’ interest in coming to class and working hard to produce final projects.   As unoriginal as it may sound, for many students it seems that learning just needs to be made fun.

In addition to the satisfaction that comes with knowing that my students have in fact gained from my presence, I feel that I have learned even more from them.  I’m convinced that getting to know youth is the best way to understand a community.  Cultural gaffes seem less embarrassing and children’s straightforward nature allows for so much honesty!

While there have been many obstacles to achieving student success, I am convinced more than ever that The Modern Story engages students in all of the right ways.  In order for a paradigm shift to occur in the field of education in India, students need to be exposed to new ideas and people.  I’m so happy to have had this opportunity and wish next year’s Fellows the best of luck!