Hello, my name is Jake Fassenfeld. I am a sophomore at the University of Maryland studying Agricultural Leadership & Communications. This past summer I had the privilege to work as a teacher's assistant at Munsey Park Elementary School located in Manhasset, New York. To say I had a wonderful and rewarding experience during my internship is an understatement. Through the connections I made with my colleagues, supervisors, and students I could not have asked for any other opportunity. This internship sparked an interest in education for a possible future career. Throughout my time at Manhasset Afterschool Xperience (M.A.X), I taught my students math and science skills, as well as conducted in-class science experiments such as the elephant toothpaste experiment. During this experiment, we measured half a cup of hydrogen peroxide and dish soap. After we mixed these ingredients together we received elephant toothpaste! Some other activities I planned for my students throughout my time at M.A.X were outdoor nature scavenger hunts. For these scavenger hunts, I as well as my two other colleagues would split the kids into groups and hand them a piece of paper. On the paper, there would be directions telling the students to find a certain amount of sticks, leaves, rocks, plants, etc. Whichever team found these items first won! The most gratifying part of my time teaching as a teacher's assistant was being able to teach my own lesson to a 2nd-grade classroom. I taught students the difference between potential and kinetic energy. At first, they were a bit confused but thankfully with the tools and advice I learned from my supervisor and coworkers, I was confident that I was able to clarify any misunderstandings that the students had at first, and by the end of the lesson it seems like all the students got the hang of it! Being able to teach my own lesson definitely pushed me out of my comfort zone. To me, this was a huge accomplishment and gave me the confidence that I could do anything I put my mind to! By working at M.A.X for the past three months, I was able to develop and improve some of my skills. For example, I improved my communication skills. I am able to tell this because I feel more confident when I am expressing myself or any ideas I have. I learned to understand others and appreciate any feedback I receive. I would also say my time management skills undoubtedly improved. From working at M.A.X and having to plan out the week with lessons, activities, etc. This enabled me to make my own personal schedule during the week so I have enough time to accomplish all my tasks for the day. Overall, my experience at Manhasset Afterschool Xperince was so rewarding and such an incredible experience. I learned so much and feel so satisfied with the work I did. From the connections I made with my coworkers, and a step closer to a new possible career, I am so grateful.
