"The opportunity of serving for AmeriCorps is a large commitment. Many will ask is it worth the time? After serving in AmeriCorps for a year of service I can say it definitely is.

The Sustainable Schools program I was a part of worked with industry leading sustainability organizations such as the USGBC Center for Green Schools and connected me with sustainability professionals from around the country. Through my service I worked with energy bench-marking and leaned about facility management. This has made a significant difference in my ability to be an industry leader in sustainability. After my one year of service I was able to come out of it with a full time job working with the Department of Energy and the Environmental Protection Agency.

The path was not easy and the direction was not always clear but my service pushed me to come up with creative solutions to deal with difficult issues.

After a year of completing assignments, interacting with key stakeholders, and receiving feedback, I gained the confidence to apply my skills to the workforce outside of AmeriCorps. The program helped me find a passion and helped guide me to use my skill set to make a difference.

My service in Sustainable Schools has definitely helped me professionally and was well worth my time. AmeriCorps isn't for everyone but if you are a passionate individual looking to make a difference in your local community, this is your opportunity."