August brings the end of the summer and the end of an era- well, my era at the Squam Lakes Association. I am the first member to serve two full AmeriCorps terms at the SLA and boy, has it been a wild ride. There are many things that I reflect on and know that I will carry with me into my professional career and personal life- lessons learned, skills developed, and knowledge tucked away for later. These are some of my highlights each tied to a specific memory from my time here that I hope will be useful to future AmeriCorps.
Before you ask for help with a problem, dig into your creative side. Duct tape is a roll of possibilities.
If there are issues in the workplace, don’t let it steep. Confront it early and ask for support from others if you need it.
Don’t say “Look a Great blue heron!” before making sure that it’s not a fake pond ornament.
Remember your mistakes but do not dwell on them. Seriously, you have to keep telling yourself not to sweat it and eventually you’ll get good at letting things roll off your shoulders.
Heavy machinery makes noise that sounds bad, but it’s usually normal.
There are many more things in your house and car that you can fix yourself than you think.
Keep in touch with organizations that have similar missions and forge personal relationships with their staff. Not only can they expand job opportunities and help you with professional development, but they may also provide 20 foot bonfires, the chance to sledgehammer a concrete foundation, and top notch veggie burgers.
There are many things that you may think you’re unqualified to do. The truth is, the professionals became professionals after someone showed them how to do something once and then left them to figure it out themselves. Trust me, you’ll be a professional in no time, especially when it comes to getting the work truck unstuck.
How seriously you take things determines whether you’re having a terrible time or if you’re experiencing Type II fun.
You can make a lot of fun meals over a campfire as long as you have access to tinfoil and a variety of popcorn seasonings.
For future members, remember these ten things and you’ll have a great term! The best parts of my service were interacting with the other LRCC sites, diving, and snow plowing. Make sure you have fires in the wintertime, it’s stupid cold but it is the best. Visit Ladders, the thrift store in Plymouth, for anything you need- clothes, books, crafts, or kitchen appliances. The Marketplace is not open year round, so make sure you take advantage of it. The rest you’re going to have to sort out yourself, but enjoy your time on the lake and try not to crash any boats. Good luck!
**** BONUS GUIDELINE ****
11. Wear microspikes. Wear eye protection. Get an air fryer for the cottage.
After two years together, we will miss Maggy’s bright personality here at the SLA. However, we are excited for her next adventure in the Florida Keys doing bird rehabilitation! Learn more about Maggy here!