Every Child Counts

I have been able to take a slightly different perspective throughout this experience. Working at ECC is incredible. The students are inspiring and I can expect that they will change the world. But they aren’t the only ones who I know will make a difference.

Working in first year programming, I knew all of the incoming students by their demographic information. I played a small role in facilitating their transition into the collegiate atmosphere. I’ve been able to interact with a some of the first year class and truly get to know them as people. But I didn’t feel quite satisfied enough with that level of interaction. So when I was given the opportunity to go to Abaco with the Bridging the Digital Divide RCC, I jumped at the chance.

Heading down here, I wasn’t quite sure what I was getting into, but I knew I wanted to get to know these students on a more personal level. Half way through the trip, I recognize how honored I am to witness their learning first hand.

I’ve been so impressed with the questions they have asked regarding societal inequities, economic deprivation, and what it means to live in a country in which advancement is not a given. They’ve recognized the privileges they enjoy as students at Rollins as compared to the struggles the students at ECC face. What’s more is that they recognize their responsibility in working in solidarity with people who have had different life experiences than we have.

One message I have heard from our students on a consistent basis throughout this trip is how much the kids at ECC have impacted them. A few of our students even had tears in their eyes as one class practiced a skit that points out the stigmas kids at ECC face daily. I couldn’t help but feel emotional as I witness our students’ growth during this experience.

In a few days we will leave Abaco. More importantly, we will leave as changed individuals. We will have gained a greater understanding of what it means to truly be Global Citizens and Responsible Leaders. And that has made all the difference.

-Deanna Davis

Rollins Explorations