We’d like to take this time to focus on this month’s AmeriCorps Member Spotlight, Surya Green. Surya relocated from Temple, Texas and serves as a Social Emotional Learning Coach at Young Middle School. Surya has stepped in and established herself as a trustworthy and knowledgeable resource to students and the team at Young. Surya thrives under pressure and constantly goes the extra mile for her students each chance that she gets.

In addition to serving as a Social Emotional Learning Coach, Surya is also pursuing her Educational Doctorate in Educational Leadership in Mental Health & Human Services at Houston Baptist University. During her time with Hands On Atlanta, Surya has shown the initiative to get the job done plus more. Thank you for your dedication and commitment towards making a difference in the communities we serve.

Why did you join AmeriCorps?

Honestly, I was a stressed teacher who didn't want to lose my passion for what I was doing. I saw that there was an opening for a SEL position which was an area I was familiar with and wanted to transition into within the next year. Being familiar with AmeriCorps, I enjoyed my previous service terms and decided to apply. 

What do you like most about working with your students?

Every day is a surprise. I never know what my day will be like but I know that it will be filled with excitement. My students are raw and genuine, unknowingly expressing their needs. Even on the hardest days, they give me the needed motivation and reminder as to why I chose this profession.

What do you hope to gain from this experience?

Mentorship and a network that can support me when I begin my journey back into the education system. I have been granted the opportunity to work closely with administrators and see a number of different leadership styles. I only hope to take what I've experienced thus far and use that to navigate my next position with confidence.  

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

In 5 years, I will be Dr. Green and operate as a district behavior specialist or interventionist. I hope to finish my ABA coursework, so that I may sit for the BACB Exam and become a BCBA. Most importantly, I want to begin working on establishing a non profit that puts a focus on mental health and integrating CMH (community mental health) centers/programs into school districts. 

When you’re not mentoring/tutoring, what do you like to do for fun?

I like to go to the movies and spend time with my son. We are always looking for a random activity to experience.  

What do you love about Atlanta?

Family, food and the culture. 

Are you interested in learning more about a year of service through the Hands On Atlanta AmeriCorps program? Click here to see all the program benefits, what you’ll do and to start your application for the 2023-24 term.