Service-learning student programmer Yin Yu writes the AfterWords blog for Edmonds Community College with help from fellow student Lisa Quirk. Both bloggers are alumnae of the Learn-and-serve Environmental Anthropology Field (LEAF) school, a series of three anthropology classes 101, 102, and 103, with a strong service-learning focus, they say was their best college experience. They are also active in the S.A.V.E. (Students Association for a Viable Environment) on campus. Both women are busy juggling work, school, and volunteer activities in addition to blogging. But, “No worries,” they say, getting involved on campus is worth the effort.
Please get involved by dropping a line to Yin and Lisa in the comments section of this blog and letting them know you’re reading!
Yin Yu
Associate of Science • Foundation Scholarship recipient
Why Edmonds CC? This place feels like home.
Why now? I know if I don’t continue, I’ll never finish.
Before Edmonds CC I was in high school and thought I wanted to move to NY to become a fashion designer while working at Panda Express.
Working as a service-learning student programmer at Edmonds CC and at UW Medicine Shoreline Clinic
Best college experience LEAF! I completed 300-hours of AmeriCorps service this summer, and everyday in class, I was introduced to a new environment, watersheds around the sound, and new community partners. I gained an understanding of the natural habitat in my neighborhood. I tell everyone I meet that they are missing out if they don’t enroll in the LEAF school.
Interests movie nights, sushi nights and crepe dates with friends. I also like to get muddy when on a mission to take out invasive plants.
Advice for new students Take the time to meet your student government since they are super nice and very helpful. You are never too busy to voice your option and to fight for change on campus. There are so many resources (TRiO-Student Support Services, Career Action Center, Learning Support Center (tutoring), clubs.. etc) available on campus to help you succeed.
What to eat on campus Veggie Burger
You’ll hear her say "No worries."
Book The Omnivore’s Dilemma
Traveled to Taiwan, Hong Kong, Canada, Oregon, and New York. (Hopefully to Vietnam this Spring)
What’s next? UW Bothell to study Environmental Science
Dream job To work for the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation or any other organizations to help save the world from itself.
Lisa Quirk
Associate of Arts
Why Edmonds CC? Because of its anthropology classes and its location
Why now? Because I realized I was getting older, but further from what I wanted to be doing with my life.
Working as a lab assistant at Edmonds CC
Before Edmonds CC I was a spa director with 50+ employees.
Biggest challenge Going back to school as an adult…to juggle an established life, bills, friends and habits with the new role as a student can be difficult at times.
Best college experience LEAF Summer of ‘08. It changed my life.
Advice for new students It’s been said a thousand times before, but get involved! There are tons of resources and support systems ready for you.
What to eat on campus Life is great with Diet Coke and Fries!
On my iPod Michael Buble
You’ll hear her say “No worries.”
Traveled to Australia, New Zealand, and several European countries
What’s next? I plan on going to UW to complete my bachelor’s degree.
College goal Ph.D