Report: Lillian Leptos
The WRSC volunteers have the option of helping out in classes on campus, but as with the community volunteering, they must successfully apply for the position of classroom aide.
Ali was very clear about the sort of experience he wanted to get from his campus volunteering.
“I have a good grounding in astronomy and physics and I thought I would have the knowledge to help out in the Year 7 science class,” Ali says.
“I looked at all the classes that were on during our timetabled session and I saw that Ms Fantini was teaching. I think it’s best if you have a mentor that you get on with and who is really supportive. Ms Fantini is always really happy to see me. She has a conversation with me before class about what the class will be doing, and she gives me a copy of the handouts they will be working through.
“I help with all the set-up activities and often do the writing on the whiteboard. My job is to support both the teacher and the students. When I work with the students, I know not to give the answer but to ask the sort of questions that will guide them. Of course not all students behave perfectly and if a student is being disruptive I try to sit near them and have a talk about how their behaviour is affecting their learning and the class.”
A mature and effective student leader, Ali not only leads with his actions but also by his example.
While in his early years, Ali thought about possibly becoming a science teacher, he has realised that a career in construction project management is where his future lies.
Whichever career path he finally follows, the experience Ali has gained from his leadership roles in the college and his volunteering experiences, will stand him in good stead.