Learning Resident Sara Worsfold: Reflection on Volunteering at Harpswell

Former LR Sara Worsfold reflects on her experience at Harpswell:"Before joining Harpswell, I was teaching in Slovakia under a Fulbright Scholarship and was urged by a former LR and professor of mine to look in to the Harpswell Foundation. Reviewing the mission of Harpswell, I immediately knew it was where I was meant to be. During my time at the dorm, I taught Analytical Writing and Comparative Genocide Studies. Both courses allowed me to develop a close relationship with the women. I encouraged them to sign up for tutoring and mentoring with me. Outside of the classroom, I loved organizing stress-relieving or culturally-focused activities to bring the dorms together. We often had in-dorm activities such as movie nights, themed nights like “camp night,” homemade bubble tea, and of course, dance parties! We also visited museums, took a boat ride, and went rock climbing.Of the many experiences we had, one thing is for sure - these women have changed my life. I have truly found an abundance of joy and learned more than I ever imagined from this sisterhood. While I thought I was going to help and teach them, I quickly realized they were doing the same for me. I love staying in contact with the girls and hearing all the accomplishments happening at Harpswell. I miss the laughs, hugs, and endless learning but I am excited to share what I learned from my time in Cambodia with my 5th grader students this next school year! I am thankful for the Harpswell Foundation for this opportunity; I feel I am a better woman, teacher, and global citizen." - Sara Worsfold