April 8th, 2015
I'm sick with Strep Throat so I've had a lot of time to do some reflection on last week.
I think one of the most oddest feelings is leaving something you become so absorbed in. Back in January when I went to Outdoor Ed, I felt the exact thing I am feeling now. I spent so much time at PILOT not just for this project but for myself.
Before PILOT, I assumed and stereotyped my Pacific Islander culture. Some of the common things I assumed and stereotyped were thoughts like, "Every P.I. plays football." "Every P.I. is a dropout and a menace/burden to society." "The only thing that P.I.'s ever care for is their family and gangs that they're involved with." "Every P.I. is overweight." Things like this aren't pretty, and its shameful to know I used to think this way. In fact, I guess you can even say I was ashamed of being a P.I.
If you look at our people, we haven't really benefited or contributed to the world other than the fact that we have strong cultural values, (which are dying) good food, and unique self/cultural dancing. Half of us can't even speak our own languages. You never see a P.I. in the news for doing something good either. One of the most recent things I've heard about P.I.s in the news was that a Samoan couple had a 20 pound baby. I get why this would be news, but why would anyone benefit from knowing this. Even when I started PILOT, I expected to be shunned because I wasn't a full Pacific Islander. (I'm Peruvian, Polynesian, and White, with a hint of Japanese.)
But that wasn't the case.
On my first day of PILOT, I was warmly welcomed by everyone that was working with the program. They didn't care that I wasn't a full P.I. for some reason. In other instances, I have been shunned because I wasn't like them. I was too insignificant. When other members came, it was a bit awkward since we didn't know each other. But just like Outdoor Ed, I had the same feeling that this was going to be a different experience and that I will eventually come to love each and everyone that entered the program.
I wasn't spot off. After the first two days I grew fond of each person that walked through the Mana room. I found that soon I could express myself and joke with everyone in the room. As I did this, I also got to know everyone else's lives and struggles. I think our biggest bonding moment was the activity dubbed, "Star Power." (I can't elaborate on it though for secretive reasons.) After Star Power, we all were able to understand how the world works, and the things we all face as a P.I. community. We realized that we are all in this together, whether we like it or not, and if we actually want to change it, we can. The tools are there for us and so many others that want to do things. The hardest parts about changing the world are finding the opportunities to do so and to keep the motivation you have at that moment.
At PILOT, two quotes stood out to me. The first quote is from a Fijian teacher from the University of Hawaii who is working on his PhD in Political Science. (I think I said this in my blog about my 3rd day of PILOT.) I was talking to him about studying Political Science in order to change the world for the better. He immediately told me to "Shut up." I was quite astonished and pretty much speechless. When I found out I still had a functional mouth, I asked him why. He responded with think Fijian accent, "It does not take a degree in Political Science to change the world. All it takes is a passion for people."
The next quote is short and simple, but true. I believe Cassandra told me this one. "The most dangerous person (or P.I.) is an educated person." This quote goes without saying. In our society, we need a higher education in order to do what we want and make money. For example, the teachers in our school district barely make enough in order to make it above the San Francisco poverty line. I am assuming most of our teachers only have a Bachelor's Degree. Therefore, to make more money or live comfortably or start a family, they'd have to go back to College and get an M.A or Masters or PhD. It's ridiculous, and forever will be UNTIL WE CHANGE THAT AS A COMMUNITY.
I think its safe to say that minority communities need programs like PILOT to instill the need for changing our world for the better. We often look within our communities and find problems and ask ourselves, "why doesn't someone do anything to change that." PILOT, (and SIA) taught me that we, the people, are that someone. It is our humanly, if not God given, duty to change things to better our world and the people in it. The world doesn't revolve around us. We revolve around our world.
Thank you
Wednesday, April 8, 2015
Saturday, April 4, 2015
Last Day at PILOT. (Day 5)
Written April 4th, 2015
Today was bittersweet, as it was our last day at PILOT.
Breakfast was amazing yesterday. Salmon, Tapai, yams, and other sorts of P.I. food was warm and ready for PILOT to eat. It was generally quiet in the morning. I think that we all felt sad that it was our last day, and remained quite.
After breakfast and an icebreaker activity, we went into the conference room and opened up with prayer. Our leaders started the activities out of order. The first activity was understanding our values. We all got a paper and wrote who and what we valued in family, religion, and culture. Our leaders then explained we needed to rip the paper if we identified with statements they read. This activity really gave members food for thought, as we wondered if we lived up to the conformity of the world. Afterwards the Forward Movement Project was introduced by Danny-Boy. He showed a project he and other leaders were working on, and asked us to participate in.
Next, we discussed what was Beyond PILOT. Many leaders went up and shared activities and projects they and their NPOs are currently working on. One close to home would be at San Mateo High School. Kaserina went up and explained that they're throwing a big P.I. festival on April 18. Nani shared a health convention that will be held at the Samoan Community Development Center.
When they were done sharing, we wrote letters to our future selves. The main theme of the activity was to understand where we have come from, and where we plan on going. Nani is going to mail the letters 2-3 months from now. The family went to lunch afterwards.
Coming back from lunch, we all were nervous about giving our, "PILOT Talks." PILOT talks are the same as TED talks. The day before Friday, I got into an argument with my uncle. I shared this experience with everybody, and discussed how our age limits what people think of us. Many times, our elders believe they may know whats best for us, but I explained that through PILOT, I figured out how I will not be silenced by negative and corrupt authority. In order to grow, a person has to become vulnerable and stand up for what is right, whether it be for themselves or for another. That is the only way that the world we live in can be changed for a positive effect.
When PILOT Talks closed, we were awarded our certificates of completion. Danny-Boy personally gave advice to each and everyone one of us. He told me personally that, "Despite your age Alex, you are very wise and have numerous potential. But make sure to always humble yourself. If you don't humble yourself, it will be a hard road." He said more, which is hard to recall, but the words I do remember really do make me think about how I act and how I portal myself. In order to change the world and become great, one must know when to step up and step down.
After PILOT Talks, we reflected on the events of the day and the past week. We filled out our evaluation forms and took hundreds of pictures together. Because of this I was super late for work, but it was worth it. Money will not bring someone true happiness.
I can honestly say I'm going through withdrawals of PILOT. It doesn't feel right that I'm not in the Mana or conference room discussing all sorts of matters. Its weird not hearing the multiple dialects and languages that I have yet to learn, the beautiful harmonization of Ono's vocals, the music played from Urusla's ukelele, Loni's electric bass, and Jen's guitar. I will never forget PILOT and the people I met at this experience. I can promise you, if I ever make it to the top I am going to change the way the world thinks of the Pacific Islander community. I'm glad that the Capstone Project helped me fulfill not only my hours, but a void in who I am and who I want and will be.
Thank you for reading my blog.
Aloha nui loa, (Hawaiian)
La Soifua Ma Ia Mania, (Samoan)
Malo 'Aupito, (Tongan)
Vanuinui Vinaka e Nomu Volau. (Fijian)
Alexander K Hernani
Hours completed: 9
Total hours completed: 42-43
Today was bittersweet, as it was our last day at PILOT.
Breakfast was amazing yesterday. Salmon, Tapai, yams, and other sorts of P.I. food was warm and ready for PILOT to eat. It was generally quiet in the morning. I think that we all felt sad that it was our last day, and remained quite.
After breakfast and an icebreaker activity, we went into the conference room and opened up with prayer. Our leaders started the activities out of order. The first activity was understanding our values. We all got a paper and wrote who and what we valued in family, religion, and culture. Our leaders then explained we needed to rip the paper if we identified with statements they read. This activity really gave members food for thought, as we wondered if we lived up to the conformity of the world. Afterwards the Forward Movement Project was introduced by Danny-Boy. He showed a project he and other leaders were working on, and asked us to participate in.
Next, we discussed what was Beyond PILOT. Many leaders went up and shared activities and projects they and their NPOs are currently working on. One close to home would be at San Mateo High School. Kaserina went up and explained that they're throwing a big P.I. festival on April 18. Nani shared a health convention that will be held at the Samoan Community Development Center.
When they were done sharing, we wrote letters to our future selves. The main theme of the activity was to understand where we have come from, and where we plan on going. Nani is going to mail the letters 2-3 months from now. The family went to lunch afterwards.
Coming back from lunch, we all were nervous about giving our, "PILOT Talks." PILOT talks are the same as TED talks. The day before Friday, I got into an argument with my uncle. I shared this experience with everybody, and discussed how our age limits what people think of us. Many times, our elders believe they may know whats best for us, but I explained that through PILOT, I figured out how I will not be silenced by negative and corrupt authority. In order to grow, a person has to become vulnerable and stand up for what is right, whether it be for themselves or for another. That is the only way that the world we live in can be changed for a positive effect.
When PILOT Talks closed, we were awarded our certificates of completion. Danny-Boy personally gave advice to each and everyone one of us. He told me personally that, "Despite your age Alex, you are very wise and have numerous potential. But make sure to always humble yourself. If you don't humble yourself, it will be a hard road." He said more, which is hard to recall, but the words I do remember really do make me think about how I act and how I portal myself. In order to change the world and become great, one must know when to step up and step down.
After PILOT Talks, we reflected on the events of the day and the past week. We filled out our evaluation forms and took hundreds of pictures together. Because of this I was super late for work, but it was worth it. Money will not bring someone true happiness.
I can honestly say I'm going through withdrawals of PILOT. It doesn't feel right that I'm not in the Mana or conference room discussing all sorts of matters. Its weird not hearing the multiple dialects and languages that I have yet to learn, the beautiful harmonization of Ono's vocals, the music played from Urusla's ukelele, Loni's electric bass, and Jen's guitar. I will never forget PILOT and the people I met at this experience. I can promise you, if I ever make it to the top I am going to change the way the world thinks of the Pacific Islander community. I'm glad that the Capstone Project helped me fulfill not only my hours, but a void in who I am and who I want and will be.
Thank you for reading my blog.
Aloha nui loa, (Hawaiian)
La Soifua Ma Ia Mania, (Samoan)
Malo 'Aupito, (Tongan)
Vanuinui Vinaka e Nomu Volau. (Fijian)
Alexander K Hernani
Hours completed: 9
PILOT Day 4! (April 2nd, 2015)
Written April 4, 2015
Today you could feel the mana around us.
We first opened up with breakfast and prayer. I was the first one there as usual. Towards the end of breakfast, more people trickled in and by the time we opened up in the first activity we had the usual group.
We first opened up with the activity dubbed, "Power of Resistance." I don't recall much from the activity since I have a headache, but we watched a video and discussed ways that Pacific Islanders have, and will resist the stereotypes and negative environment that we face day-to-day.
Our next activity is a secret. I cannot give the details about it because Nani, my mentor, asked that I keep it on the down low since it is a key activity that PILOT does. I will say that it involves the issues of social class.
After lunch, we de-briefed on the activity. I discussed how I quickly realized what the game was and how it was shaped, so I decided to play the devil's advocate which would benefit the group in terms of thought. I was surprised to see that a member who wasn't that passionate about PILOT step up and speak her mind. It was almost heartwarming.
Our de-briefing activity led into our last activity, "Being a Community Advocate." This one is hard to recall as well, but I believe we discussed ways in which we can continue to benefit the P.I. community.
Hours completed: 8-9
Total hours completed: 33-34
Today you could feel the mana around us.
We first opened up with breakfast and prayer. I was the first one there as usual. Towards the end of breakfast, more people trickled in and by the time we opened up in the first activity we had the usual group.
We first opened up with the activity dubbed, "Power of Resistance." I don't recall much from the activity since I have a headache, but we watched a video and discussed ways that Pacific Islanders have, and will resist the stereotypes and negative environment that we face day-to-day.
Our next activity is a secret. I cannot give the details about it because Nani, my mentor, asked that I keep it on the down low since it is a key activity that PILOT does. I will say that it involves the issues of social class.
After lunch, we de-briefed on the activity. I discussed how I quickly realized what the game was and how it was shaped, so I decided to play the devil's advocate which would benefit the group in terms of thought. I was surprised to see that a member who wasn't that passionate about PILOT step up and speak her mind. It was almost heartwarming.
Our de-briefing activity led into our last activity, "Being a Community Advocate." This one is hard to recall as well, but I believe we discussed ways in which we can continue to benefit the P.I. community.
Hours completed: 8-9
Total hours completed: 33-34
Thursday, April 2, 2015
PILOT Day 3! (Part 2 With Pictures!)
April 1, 2015
Continued…
After lunch, the PILOT leaders gathered the community leaders into the other room. (I'll start calling it conference room now.) They brought the Youth in and had us take seats. The room was packed, yet it was pretty hyped for some reason. They explained to us that this was our time to make connections, ask questions, and get to know who and what our leaders are and act like. In this blog I am going to point out some interviews I had that had the most positive affect on me. I also would like to note that I took notes and interviewed several other people on my research project, since most leaders were big shots in many NPOs. (I left my binder at the SCDC today so I'll need to fill in the names at a later date.)
My first impactful interview was with a creative writer. She was about in her 40s or 50s. I was so excited to meet her and talk to her that I was super anxious. We talked about my creative writing class and the impact its had on me this year. I invited her to come to our school and talk to my class, to which she pleasantly agreed to. She then asked to see some of my work, so I showed her the 2nd draft version of a poem I wrote for C.W. class. She really flattered me with her comments and compliments. I felt like a kid who was clichély looking up to his hero. It was hard leaving her since there was so much I wanted to say, but I left positively and ready to improve my writing to better communicate emotions in our world
My next interview that was impactful was with a man called Damien. Professionally, he's a probation officer. Socially, he runs a non-profit called, "(forgot word) Playaz." Before I even took my seat, Damien said that he had been eavesdropping on my previous conversation and said that I had been "really blessed with communication skills." I shared a few things from my life as he talked about his job in order to relate to him and make conversation. Towards the end, Damien invited me to join his NPO. I said I'd think about it. The most important thing that he had said to me was when he was praising me. He told me that I was going to go far in life, and by taking the right path, I could even be president some day. Wouldn't that be the dream?
The last interview that profoundly stood out to me was the quick and simple conversation I had with a U.H. Professor who was in California working on his PHD. He was a Fijian man, who had dark skin, short, gray, hair, and looked stern. We got into conversation after a few seconds and I could tell he knew more than he looked. It was like he was reading me. He asked me what I wanted to do in life to which I replied that I wasn't sure, but wanted to make a difference in my community. I said I would most likely go into Political Science in order to understand the political side of the government, to change the world for the better, and to become a senator or representative.
This man said the most shocking thing to me at that moment. He raised his hand and said simply, "Shut up." I paused for a second, not knowing what to say or do. He then looked me and the eye and said, "You do not need a degree in political science in order to change the world or become a politician. What you need is a passion for people; and thats something you have. Right now, we are discussing politics as we speak. You already have the skills you need. Just utilize them and you will find your way."
I think that was my take away moment. My, Aha, moment. I will never forget that moment in my entire life. This activity lasted so long. Afterwards, another creative writer, Tammy, performed one of her own pieces. I also invited her to talk to my Creative Writing class, to which she agreed. By the end of reflection and our prayer to end the day, it was already an hour over time. Though I may have completed my hours, I will still finish this program for the week. I wouldn't be able to live with myself if I didn't.
Hours completed: 9
Total Hours completed: 25/25
Continued…
After lunch, the PILOT leaders gathered the community leaders into the other room. (I'll start calling it conference room now.) They brought the Youth in and had us take seats. The room was packed, yet it was pretty hyped for some reason. They explained to us that this was our time to make connections, ask questions, and get to know who and what our leaders are and act like. In this blog I am going to point out some interviews I had that had the most positive affect on me. I also would like to note that I took notes and interviewed several other people on my research project, since most leaders were big shots in many NPOs. (I left my binder at the SCDC today so I'll need to fill in the names at a later date.)
My first impactful interview was with a creative writer. She was about in her 40s or 50s. I was so excited to meet her and talk to her that I was super anxious. We talked about my creative writing class and the impact its had on me this year. I invited her to come to our school and talk to my class, to which she pleasantly agreed to. She then asked to see some of my work, so I showed her the 2nd draft version of a poem I wrote for C.W. class. She really flattered me with her comments and compliments. I felt like a kid who was clichély looking up to his hero. It was hard leaving her since there was so much I wanted to say, but I left positively and ready to improve my writing to better communicate emotions in our world
My next interview that was impactful was with a man called Damien. Professionally, he's a probation officer. Socially, he runs a non-profit called, "(forgot word) Playaz." Before I even took my seat, Damien said that he had been eavesdropping on my previous conversation and said that I had been "really blessed with communication skills." I shared a few things from my life as he talked about his job in order to relate to him and make conversation. Towards the end, Damien invited me to join his NPO. I said I'd think about it. The most important thing that he had said to me was when he was praising me. He told me that I was going to go far in life, and by taking the right path, I could even be president some day. Wouldn't that be the dream?
The last interview that profoundly stood out to me was the quick and simple conversation I had with a U.H. Professor who was in California working on his PHD. He was a Fijian man, who had dark skin, short, gray, hair, and looked stern. We got into conversation after a few seconds and I could tell he knew more than he looked. It was like he was reading me. He asked me what I wanted to do in life to which I replied that I wasn't sure, but wanted to make a difference in my community. I said I would most likely go into Political Science in order to understand the political side of the government, to change the world for the better, and to become a senator or representative.
This man said the most shocking thing to me at that moment. He raised his hand and said simply, "Shut up." I paused for a second, not knowing what to say or do. He then looked me and the eye and said, "You do not need a degree in political science in order to change the world or become a politician. What you need is a passion for people; and thats something you have. Right now, we are discussing politics as we speak. You already have the skills you need. Just utilize them and you will find your way."
I think that was my take away moment. My, Aha, moment. I will never forget that moment in my entire life. This activity lasted so long. Afterwards, another creative writer, Tammy, performed one of her own pieces. I also invited her to talk to my Creative Writing class, to which she agreed. By the end of reflection and our prayer to end the day, it was already an hour over time. Though I may have completed my hours, I will still finish this program for the week. I wouldn't be able to live with myself if I didn't.
Hours completed: 9
Total Hours completed: 25/25
PILOT Day 3! (Part 1)
April 1, 2015
Wow. Today was just amazing. I may have to break this blog post into two parts.
Since I was so tired from last night's work shift, I woke up a little later than usual, but was still on time. When I got there, I went to that Mana room because I was so tired and knocked out for a good 40 minuets until someone came up to me and woke me up. Breakfast had arrived and I was pretty hungry.
After our ice breaker activity called, Samurai, we moved into the other room. Our first activity was learning the personal backgrounds of our community leaders who put PILOT together. They were pretty much giving their own "Lifelines" like we did on Monday. Some people like Danny-Boy, Ursula Ann, and Gaynor really impressed me on how they got to where they were at today.
After this activity, we did some self discovery on how we are as leaders. They divided up the room into North, South, East, and West. Each directions was a different kind of leader. In each direction, we outlined a vacation plan to demonstrate how we are. I felt more towards the North, but also a part of me was South. Northerners were abrasive and somewhat aggressive leaders who "Get it Done."They're stubborn and don't take no for an answer. The Southerners were people that were conscious about what the people wanted and how they felt. Southerners put others before themselves most of the time. I feel as if I am both of these, but it depends on what situation I am in. East people were the Visionary types, while Westerners were the analysts.
We went back to out seats and received another folder. In it contained a self evaluation test on what type of learners we are. On my first test, I was more of a visual learner, but I also felt that it was wrong. I felt more like a kinesthetic learner at times. I did the test one more time and landed up in both categories. I believe that just like the North and South exercise, I had a bit of both worlds.
After this activity, we moved onto lunch where we mingled with local/national Pacific Islander Leaders. Our last activity of the day will be on the next post and will have pictures!
Wow. Today was just amazing. I may have to break this blog post into two parts.
Since I was so tired from last night's work shift, I woke up a little later than usual, but was still on time. When I got there, I went to that Mana room because I was so tired and knocked out for a good 40 minuets until someone came up to me and woke me up. Breakfast had arrived and I was pretty hungry.
After our ice breaker activity called, Samurai, we moved into the other room. Our first activity was learning the personal backgrounds of our community leaders who put PILOT together. They were pretty much giving their own "Lifelines" like we did on Monday. Some people like Danny-Boy, Ursula Ann, and Gaynor really impressed me on how they got to where they were at today.
After this activity, we did some self discovery on how we are as leaders. They divided up the room into North, South, East, and West. Each directions was a different kind of leader. In each direction, we outlined a vacation plan to demonstrate how we are. I felt more towards the North, but also a part of me was South. Northerners were abrasive and somewhat aggressive leaders who "Get it Done."They're stubborn and don't take no for an answer. The Southerners were people that were conscious about what the people wanted and how they felt. Southerners put others before themselves most of the time. I feel as if I am both of these, but it depends on what situation I am in. East people were the Visionary types, while Westerners were the analysts.
We went back to out seats and received another folder. In it contained a self evaluation test on what type of learners we are. On my first test, I was more of a visual learner, but I also felt that it was wrong. I felt more like a kinesthetic learner at times. I did the test one more time and landed up in both categories. I believe that just like the North and South exercise, I had a bit of both worlds.
After this activity, we moved onto lunch where we mingled with local/national Pacific Islander Leaders. Our last activity of the day will be on the next post and will have pictures!
Day 2 of PILOT
April 1, 2015
So day two of PILOT was a bit slow. All I know/ remember was that I was busy that day. I had PILOT from 9-5 and then I had work from 6pm to 1am because one of the closing workers left because of an emergency. My co-worker and I were the only two cleaning the store for closing. (I am making this post a day after.)
We opened up the day with a usual ice breaker game and breakfast. Most of the food and drinks are homemade, like the traditional fruit drink Otai. After our game we went into the other room to get to work.
We opened up with an activity called, "Take a Stand." All you really had to do was go on the agree or disagree side of the room and explain why you agreed or disagreed with a statement the mediators read. I was somewhat the devil's advocate because I wanted to talk about my own personal truths and beliefs, and also cause some conversation. It was a successful activity.
Next, we watched a 30 min video on the effects that the nuclear bomb testing in the Marshall Islands. We learned that even today its still affecting their health and society. Some women even have "jelly babies." I' d rather not elaborate on that. Anyways, the video made a strong universal theme. It stated that communities with more money are healthier and stronger while those with less money are not.
After lunch, we moved onto our next activity, which i can't remember.
Our last activity was a project. We had to address problems within our community and outline a plan in order to help it. My subject was Immigration. Though tired and worn out, I tried my best to present, but I just felt like I was rambling the whole time.
That was really it. I'm going to upload the photos from this day on the next post.
Hours completed: 8
Total hours completed: 16/25
So day two of PILOT was a bit slow. All I know/ remember was that I was busy that day. I had PILOT from 9-5 and then I had work from 6pm to 1am because one of the closing workers left because of an emergency. My co-worker and I were the only two cleaning the store for closing. (I am making this post a day after.)
We opened up the day with a usual ice breaker game and breakfast. Most of the food and drinks are homemade, like the traditional fruit drink Otai. After our game we went into the other room to get to work.
We opened up with an activity called, "Take a Stand." All you really had to do was go on the agree or disagree side of the room and explain why you agreed or disagreed with a statement the mediators read. I was somewhat the devil's advocate because I wanted to talk about my own personal truths and beliefs, and also cause some conversation. It was a successful activity.
Next, we watched a 30 min video on the effects that the nuclear bomb testing in the Marshall Islands. We learned that even today its still affecting their health and society. Some women even have "jelly babies." I' d rather not elaborate on that. Anyways, the video made a strong universal theme. It stated that communities with more money are healthier and stronger while those with less money are not.
After lunch, we moved onto our next activity, which i can't remember.
Our last activity was a project. We had to address problems within our community and outline a plan in order to help it. My subject was Immigration. Though tired and worn out, I tried my best to present, but I just felt like I was rambling the whole time.
That was really it. I'm going to upload the photos from this day on the next post.
Hours completed: 8
Total hours completed: 16/25
Monday, March 30, 2015
First Day of PILOT!
Monday, March 30th, 2015
Hey everyone!
Today was my first day at the PILOT Program in San Francisco. The place is near the Bay View of San Francisco. We went through a rough neighborhood in order to get there, so I wondered how I was going to make it through the day.
When I got there, I met some of the other people in the program. Loni, Hine, Jen, and JJ were all pretty cool people. 3 of them were from Sac and one of them was from Stockton. After about 15-20 mins, other people in the program showed up. I'm pretty much the only high school senior in the program. The oldest person there is 26. I guess thats what you get for enrolling in a college leadership program. We went upstairs to eat breakfast and socialize. It was still kind of awkward, but we played a small game that broke the ice.
Our first activity as to share our "Lifeline," which is our story in 5 mins. I somehow shoved most of my life within the time limit, but I was able to be open and vulnerable and get people to sympathize and understand me. At the end of the activity, it felt like we were all friends.
In our second activity, we talked about the things that stereotype us and limit us. Such things would be, age, sexual orientation, race, ethnicity, gender, class, and more. I was able to effectively express myself, as did others, which caused the group to become family like. After the 2nd activity, we had lunch.
During the 3rd activity, I was pretty sleepy, so I did miss half of it. (P.I. food puts you to sleep!) But when I was awake for brief moments, I did contribute. The conversation was about Imperialism, and how the Euro-American influence pushed away and destroyed so many cultures. One or two people became really passionate on this topic, and shared their experiences from their life.
The last thing we did was a small presentation on a Pacific Islander. We don't often hear about P.I.'s in the media, especially for positive things. Little does the world know that its full of P.I.'s that have made changes in their communities to preserve their culture and better the world. My friend Ono and I made a presentation on a man named Frank Rabon.
I will shortly upload some pictures from today. The event is Monday to Friday from 8am to 5pm.
Hours Completed: 9
Total Hours: 9/25
Hey everyone!
Today was my first day at the PILOT Program in San Francisco. The place is near the Bay View of San Francisco. We went through a rough neighborhood in order to get there, so I wondered how I was going to make it through the day.
When I got there, I met some of the other people in the program. Loni, Hine, Jen, and JJ were all pretty cool people. 3 of them were from Sac and one of them was from Stockton. After about 15-20 mins, other people in the program showed up. I'm pretty much the only high school senior in the program. The oldest person there is 26. I guess thats what you get for enrolling in a college leadership program. We went upstairs to eat breakfast and socialize. It was still kind of awkward, but we played a small game that broke the ice.
Our first activity as to share our "Lifeline," which is our story in 5 mins. I somehow shoved most of my life within the time limit, but I was able to be open and vulnerable and get people to sympathize and understand me. At the end of the activity, it felt like we were all friends.
In our second activity, we talked about the things that stereotype us and limit us. Such things would be, age, sexual orientation, race, ethnicity, gender, class, and more. I was able to effectively express myself, as did others, which caused the group to become family like. After the 2nd activity, we had lunch.
During the 3rd activity, I was pretty sleepy, so I did miss half of it. (P.I. food puts you to sleep!) But when I was awake for brief moments, I did contribute. The conversation was about Imperialism, and how the Euro-American influence pushed away and destroyed so many cultures. One or two people became really passionate on this topic, and shared their experiences from their life.
The last thing we did was a small presentation on a Pacific Islander. We don't often hear about P.I.'s in the media, especially for positive things. Little does the world know that its full of P.I.'s that have made changes in their communities to preserve their culture and better the world. My friend Ono and I made a presentation on a man named Frank Rabon.
I will shortly upload some pictures from today. The event is Monday to Friday from 8am to 5pm.
Hours Completed: 9
Monday, March 16, 2015
Update #2
It has been quite sometime since I started the blogging part of the capstone. I would like to apologize for not being as involved as I should be.
I have still not completed any hours as of today, March 16, 2015. I have had a lot going on this past school year, but this is no excuse. I am going to start my hours during spring break in a program called PILOT, or, the Pacific Islander Leaders of Tomorrow. Its a NPO Leadership program that will help me develop skills and learn about the struggles of a community, specifically the Pacific Islander Community.
I would also like to thank Mr. Pine for having patience with me in this troubling school year. Thank you for your support
Hours completed: 0
Hours overall completed: 0/25
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