July 11th, 2011 - Session 2

Questions Posed

1. How was the first day? Did it meet your expectations?
2. How was your site today? What did you do? Who did you meet?

Alissa Cappelleri - ASA

Yesterday was the start of my 12 day experience as a Bonner Student. As I entered my dorm for the first time, I was excited for what was in store for me in the next two weeks. After getting to know everyone, I knew that I was going to have a great time. The icebreakers we engaged in were fun and effective. It was one of the first times I played games to meet others without feeling like I was second grade. While playing “Step to the Line,” the claim that this program would be discussing serious issues as well was confirmed. I went to bed feeling very content with my decision to attend the Bonner Summer Fellow Program.

Today’s experience was so much fun! I loved going to Martin Luther King Middle School to join the children in their summer camp activities. My morning was filled with pretend voyages to China and Mexico. I fought pirates, sharks, and magical lions. I was so excited to get to know the kids and hear what they had to say. I heard some funny jokes and even cuter songs. I was so impressed with the children’s dancing skills! I cannot wait to go back!

Chloe Tardiff - TASK

The first two days have been great! Last night we played some fun ice breaking games and team building activities. A professor came to teach us about the history of Trenton and discuss the reasons why the city is the way it is today. Later in the night we picked our groups for the two weeks. The options were TASK, Habitat for Humanity, El Centro and ASA. My first choice was TASK and that's what I received.

My first day at TASK was pretty intense. I started the day working with a women from Nigeria who was working on her GED. It was very interesting and I had a lot of fun with her. After that, I worked on the line where I served men and women from the area. I was very surprised at how thankful and, in contrast, how demanding some guests were. In summary, my first two days have been very eventful and fascinating.