Journal Entry One

On February 17, 2010, I had my first visit at Escuela Vieau, an elementary school on the south side of Milwaukee. Right from the start, both of the advisors were extremely appreciative of the students from Film 150 to come to Escuela Vieau. Maria Espinosa and Yesenia Montenegro, club managers, gave us a brief introduction to the culture and background of the school. Both emphasized that the Hispanic culture is very open to meeting and working with other cultures. The service learning opportunity reminded me of my experience of Big Brothers Big Sisters in Milwaukee. Personally, I know how excited and enthusiastic children are when they have older mentors come and spend time with them; I feel like this will be rewarding.

Also, both of the club managers explained that it doesn't matter if we cannot speak Spanish, even though all of the students can speak it fluently. Ms. Espinosa mentioned that many of the students will try to teach us how to speak Spanish. I am looking forward to the opportunity to have the children teach me some basic Spanish phrases.

Overall, I look forward to the service learning opportunity at Escuela Vieau. During the service learning I hope to learn more about the Hispanic culture, learn some Spanish, and make a positive impact on the children I am associated with. Ms. Montenegro told me that it would be best to stay home tonight instead of come and participate at the school tonight due to an illness. However, I am looking forward to my first opportunity next week.