As a representative of Clemente, I was asked to attend the Mikva Challenge Aldermanic Youth Council. Upon investigating, I learned that this council was a partnership with my neighborhood’s 35th Ward Alderman, Mr. Carlos Ramirez Rosa, and that it teaches young adults about the decision making processes in our neighborhoods.
I was somewhat intimidated at first. What do I know about the alderman and the decisions he makes? This made me hesitant to apply but after giving the opportunity some more thought, I decided to apply anyway. At first, no one in my family knew I had applied. It wasn’t until I received a phone call requesting an interview that I told my mother. She said she was proud of me for applying and thought it sounded like an amazing opportunity. When I received the news that I had been selected, my mom and I were both extremely excited.
On Saturday, October 1st, I went to the council orientation. Although I was somewhat nervous, I was also excited to meet new people, learn more about the program, and learn how my, and other neighborhoods, can improve and what steps need to be taken to do so. Even though I’ve only attended the council once, I can’t wait to return. I look forward to all I can learn and contribute to the decisions made that impact my community. In my opinion, there could not be a better time to be involved in this.
Thank you, Roberto Clemente Community Academy, for recommending me and preparing me for this opportunity!