When I was a freshman, I had little to no idea how to build a college schedule. I picked classes that sounded interesting or easy, assuming college would be manageable if I played it safe. I was wrong. My schedule ended up feeling random, but one class unexpectedly stayed with me for all three years.
That class was Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages with Professor Hepford. I initially enrolled, thinking it would be low-stress and test-free. Instead, it became one of the most meaningful courses I’ve taken at Wesleyan. At the end of the semester, the program was looking for student coordinators, and almost on a whim, I decided to apply.
Three years later, I’m still involved. I attend weekly meetings, tutor regularly, and help organize the program. It’s technically my on-campus job, and it helps cover food expenses, but more importantly, it’s something I genuinely enjoy. Looking back, it’s wild to realize how long I’ve been part of this community.
The tutoring program has given me a real sense of belonging at Wesleyan. Working alongside other students, recruiting new tutors, and supporting local learners has made the campus feel smaller and more connected. In many ways, it feels like a class that never ended, but in the best way possible. What started as a random choice during my freshman year became one of the most meaningful parts of my college experience.
