UPchieve Volunteer Spotlight: Meet Veda!
Welcome to the UPchieve Volunteer Spotlight series, where we highlight the amazing volunteers that help students succeed in school. Read on to learn more about our first amazing volunteer–Veda–and the impact she feels UPchieve has had in her life.
Veda works in logistics project management and lives in Austin, TX with her adopted cat, Sunny. She learned the value of patience from her mom, who’s a preschool teacher. And, as a former college RA, she is no stranger to guiding students through their academic experiences.
Veda caught on quickly in high school, especially in math. Although she never formally tutored before, she was able to provide help to her friends who needed it.
As a tutor with UPchieve, Veda says it’s been interesting to see what gaps she needs to fill in order to help a student comprehensively understand the topic at hand.
Why did you sign up to volunteer with UPchieve?
I loved that I was able to get the opportunity to teach underrepresented students because I’ve been looking for more meaningful volunteer opportunities. I already volunteer at an animal shelter because I love animals, but I wanted the opportunity to give back to people who’ve been less fortunate than I’ve been. I liked that UPchieve offered me the opportunity to have an impact on students’ learning on my own schedule and from my own home.
Has being an Academic Coach impacted you?
I’ve learned a lot from the students themselves. Tutoring sessions on the platform work best when the student actively asks questions and is honest when they don’t understand something. I keep that in mind during my everyday life at work --- thinking critically when my boss asks me to do something and not being afraid to ask questions or confirm that I understand.
What’s one word you would use to describe UPchieve?
The two most important things about being a coach are adaptability and encouragement. Adaptability is key because you need to change your teaching style to match the students’ needs and what they understand. Encouragement is important because you’re responsible for motivating the student and building their confidence. Sometimes students join the session feeling down or vulnerable, or they’re afraid of looking stupid. I try to make the sessions more positive and fun by telling jokes, using lots of smiley faces in the chat, and providing positive reinforcement. You can tell it makes a big difference!
Is Dell’s culture of service important to you?
I think it’s wonderful that Dell promotes giving back so much. They’re always encouraging employees to volunteer or donate to a cause that’s meaningful to them. I wouldn’t want to work for a company that makes millions of dollars and doesn’t encourage you to do more outside of work, like giving back to your community.
I’ve always felt supported at Dell. As someone new in their career, I can really relate to the students on UPchieve who need help and support to build their confidence. I appreciate that Dell provides the kind of support and comfort to their employees that UPchieve provides to their students.
What’s your favorite thing about being a volunteer tutor?
Volunteering with UPchieve has been an awesome experience. My favorite part is the satisfaction of knowing I helped a student. I love volunteering and giving back and am grateful that I’m able to do something for underrepresented people from my own apartment, for free and on my own time. It’s important to help youth who will be leading the future and helping someone build confidence in themselves and their communities.
Final Thoughts
Looking for a volunteer experience that fits into your schedule? Ready to help the next generation get ready for success? Become a volunteer tutor at UPchieve!
Want to learn more about the impact UPchieve has on students’ lives? Check out what Aaron, Sarah, Wendy, and Esmerelda have to say about their experiences using UPchieve!