2011 Conference reflection essay by Mahati Pidaparti

This National Service-Learning Conference 2011 reflection essay is by Youth Advisory Council member Mahati Pidaparti, an alumni of NYLT and junior at Wayzata High School in Plymouth, Minn.

Before going to Atlanta, I was terrified at that the thought that I would be leading workshops and speaking in front of a large crowd. However, after going to the National Service-Learning Conference in Atlanta, I can say that I have never had so much from and inspired by so many people as in Atlanta.

I had the privilege of being able to lead a couple of workshops at the conference. This taught me about the importance of keeping the presentation fun and exciting, so that people pay attention and don’t let their minds wander off. I also learned how to interact with a small crowd and a big crowd and some important strategies for both situations.

I also was able to help with the NYLC Booth. The “I will…” statements were very inspiring. It not only showed people that they should put their ideas to life, but it also gave some ideas to people, too. Watching my peers and others say what they will do in the future to help change the world, inspired me to take action and try to make a difference in the world. I truly enjoyed the time I spent in Atlanta and I learned a great deal of information about service-learning and even myself.