Michelle Hamilton served two years as an AmeriCorps member and was just recently promoted to Construction Superintendent. To get a better glimpse into what it's like to be an AmeriCorps with Habitat Wake, we asked her a few questions. Check out this Q&A:
Where are you from?
I am from Virginia Beach, Virginia.
What inspired you to apply for our AmeriCorps program?
I was inspired to apply to AmeriCorps because of all the volunteer work I did in College. Every school trip I would take would be the best week of my college career. So once I learned about AmeriCorps and all that it could do for me, it was a no-brainer.
What was the process like to apply?
The process to apply was really simple! It’s easier if you apply to the Habitat Affiliate directly, but I really enjoyed creating my AmeriCorps profile and searching for affiliates all over the country.
Did you have any prior construction experience before applying?
I have had no experience in construction before AmeriCorps, except for the three total weeks of volunteer service. However, being a volunteer is quite different from being a construction crew leader!
Think back at your first day, what was that like?
My first day was pretty intimidating. I was a political science major going into a completely new field. However, almost everyone on the construction team started because they served as AmeriCorps previously. By the end of my first day, it was quite evident that I was welcomed into a family with open arms, and I still love it every day, three years later.
What is your most memorable experience on the build site?
My most memorable day was definitely the day I finished raising walls on my very first house I was in charge of.
What is building with the Habitat Wake construction team like?
The construction team is a wonderful team, but even more than that, we’re a family. I can’t see being in construction with anyone else, we all know each other really well and can work together really effectively and still have a great time.
What was your favorite part about being an AmeriCorps member?
My favorite part of AmeriCorps was the other AmeriCorps members. More specifically, the bond you share with them, especially the AmeriCorps you serve with. We all have the same goal, and we’re all super passionate about what we’re doing, so becoming friends is quite easy.
What has being an AmeriCorps done for you, personally?
Being an AmeriCorps has boosted my self-confidence so much, and shown me that I am capable of doing important things and making the world a better place. AmeriCorps gave me the opportunity to thrive and learn more about myself as well as the world.
Why would you recommend someone join Habitat AmeriCorps?
AmeriCorps has changed my life forever, and completely for the better. For all the reasons I have stayed, all the great memories, all the bonds and family I’ve gained; these are the reasons I would recommend being an AmeriCorps with Habitat for Humanity.
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