I completed my summer internship with Elev8 Summer Freedom Schools, specifically at Southwest Baltimore Charter School. My site supervisor, Medrick Garvin, served as the site coordinator for our school's summer program. Elev8 Baltimore aims to address the unique needs of youth by creating an enriching learning environment, incorporating best practices, and implementing them within diverse community and school contexts. Elev8 Baltimore focuses on stimulating education to the children and highlighting topic in education curriculums that aren’t talked about enough.I highly recommend this opportunity to aspiring educators. It provides an excellent foundation for developing classroom skills, particularly with children. During my internship, I had the opportunity to teach environmental justice principles to sixth graders in my homeroom, discussing areas in Baltimore City where environmental justice issues were prominent. Additionally, I engaged third graders in learning about agriculture and local farming resources. A typical day at the summer freedom school kicked off with our lively morning tradition of Harambee, featuring energizing chants, announcements, and the iconic program song "Something Inside So Strong". After the morning buzz, students would head to their homeroom classes to dive into the day's lesson. A well-deserved break arrived next, with both students and teachers gathering for lunch. The afternoon was packed with enriching activities, from cooking sessions and dance classes to playworks for the kids. Finally, we wrapped up the day with dedicated time to work on our service project, which, at our site, involved tending to a community garden. My experience at Elev8 Summer Freedom Schools at Southwest Baltimore Charter School deeply impacted me, extending far beyond the realms of science. It ignited a newfound passion for teaching, inspiring me to give back to my community by nurturing the potential of future leaders, not just within Baltimore City but on a global scale. It really comes full circle for me because as a kid I was in Elev8 freedom schools and I adored the after school and summer programs so to be able to give back as a teacher now and making that experience for another kid is so important and wonderful for me. Teaching a subject that holds immense personal and professional significance to me has underscored the profound impact I can have. It has shown me that through education, I can truly make a tangible difference in the world, shaping the minds and perspectives of tomorrow's changemakers. While my internship experience at Elev8 Baltimore didn't alter my academic plans in college, it reinforced my dedication to my chosen path. I remain committed to pursuing a degree in Public Policy with a concentration in Sustainability and a minor in Environmental Justice. However, this experience has deepened my understanding of the real-world impact of my studies. It has inspired me to seek opportunities to give back to the community and apply the knowledge and skills I am acquiring in college to make a meaningful difference in the world. I am excited to continue my academic journey and to use my education to pursue my dream career in the field of sustainability and environmental justice. I enjoyed my internship experience so much that I've decided to return for the upcoming summer of 2024. I'm genuinely thrilled to carry on the impactful work I began at Elev8 Baltimore and further contribute to the community. Building upon the foundations laid during my previous tenure, I eagerly anticipate delving deeper into the initiatives and projects that align with my passion for education and community engagement. This opportunity not only allows me to expand my skills but also reinforces my commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of others.