Christina Simone Coker (Class Of 2029) — Building Confidence One Book at a Time (Volunteering With Career Goals, 4 Points)

The SpelREADS volunteering initiative was one of the most rewarding community engagement experiences of the year. One of the primary strengths of this event was the joyful, encouraging environment created between the college volunteers and the elementary students. The young readers were excited to hold up their books, and the volunteers provided a positive presence that helped make reading feel special and celebrated. Another strength was the sense of representation and empowerment—many of the books the children held centered Black characters, diverse families, and affirming stories. This made the activity both educational and culturally meaningful. The organization of the event also allowed for easy interaction between volunteers and students, which helped build comfort and trust.

Despite these strengths, there were areas for improvement. At times, the group size made it challenging to give each child focused one-on-one attention. Some students who needed more individualized guidance may not have received as much as they could have in a smaller setting. Additionally, clearer coordination around reading levels and book choices could have made the sessions even more impactful, helping volunteers tailor their support to each student’s needs. More structured activities, such as small-group reading circles or paired vocabulary games, could also enhance engagement and ensure consistency across volunteers.

This experience connects deeply with my previous involvement in youth-centered spaces, such as participating in community dance classes; A consistent pattern is my interest in mentorship and helping children feel seen, supported, and confident. SpelREADS also aligns with coursework in African American Studies, where we discuss the connections between identity, literacy, and access. Seeing children excited about books that reflect their own experiences reinforced what I have learned about how representation shapes self-esteem and academic engagement.

Authentically, 

Christina Simone Coker