By Samantha Goudey
Throughout high school, Madison was sure she was destined to become a teacher.
After participating in her high school’s Best Buddies program and serving as a teacher’s assistant in the special education department, an interest was sparked.
“They made way more of a difference in my life than I ever did on theirs.”
That’s where BCArc came in. Having her grandmother as a current BCArc employee and being familiar with the mission, Madison eagerly applied. From there, it was history.
Walking into BCArc for the first day, her nervous jitters immediately dissipated, and she felt welcomed by the staff, feeling as if one of them. “My programs were great in helping me become acclimated. I remember them encouraging me to ask questions and ensuring I felt comfortable the entire time.”
“Work didn’t feel like work.”
As a private care provider intern, Madison had the opportunity to work in two of BCArc’s Community-Based Day Services, Transitions and Northview, where she was given hands-on experience. This role allowed her to run small groups, teach lessons, and take the individuals out into the community.
For Madison, “work didn’t feel like work,” for her, it was simultaneously fun and rewarding. The interactions were organic and genuine; she remarked how “they made way more of a difference in my life than I ever did on theirs.”
Going to the animal shelter and library on a random Tuesday, and teaching life skills such as money management and eventually, even running her own nature paint activity, BCArc allowed her to not only grow, but also thrive.
Madison’s Advice; “…really get to know the people you’re supporting and their stories– it will change your life, like it did mine.”
Now, a few years later, Madison just received her Master’s and looks forward to working at Egremont in the upcoming school year as a special education teacher. Though the lessons she learned at BCArc continues.
“BCArc taught me the importance of advocacy and that ‘choice’ is a human right. It’s also comforting to know that there are resources that will follow my students not only throughout their school years, but because of BCArc, their entire lives.”
Her advice to those considering interning at BCArc?
“Do it. Ask questions, get to know the fellow staff, but really, get to know the people you’re supporting and their stories– it will change your life, like it did mine.”
