by Sam Ramaswamy, Volunteer/Humanitarian

“So I’ve been putting off this post for a few days because I’ve been thinking about what to write…

First and foremost, thank you to everyone who donated supplies and/or money as I traveled to Jamaica to participate in the Teach the Teachers program. I couldn’t have done it without your continued support and your prayers.

Words can’t describe the experience that I had in Jamaica. From making new and lifelong friends on the shuttle to Ocho Rios, to teaching a group of Jamaican teachers, I definitely grew as a person and a professional.

I know that I am where I need to be as a teacher, and I am grateful.

This trip has definitely given me a new perspective.

Please don’t ever take what you have for granted.

Have constant joy for life.

The teachers in Jamaica have classrooms of 40+ students with limited technology and still make learning happen. They always start their day with a grateful heart no matter what the circumstances.

I think I learned more from them, than they did from me.

I am excited that I will be going back for a week in November to work with the students (with the SuperKids Literacy Project), so if you feel compelled to help, please let me know.”

One Love.

About Sam ~

I live in Pittsburgh, PA, where I teach Honors Chemistry and AP Chemistry at Penn-Trafford High School in Harrison City, Pennsylvania.

Last year when I was in Negril, I was as at dinner with Georgia McClaskey and Kathy Farris; they told me about Great Shape! Inc. and the Teach the Teachers program. It sounded like the perfect opportunity to use my passion for education to help those who are less fortunate.

Now, I have this deep desire to continue to go back and help the teachers and students in Jamaica!