“A lot of us are still figuring out what we’re trying to do so it’s nice to be surrounded by people who you can connect with and figure it out together. PULSE gives you a system of support as you transition into the real world. ” – Isaac Cason
A graduate of Wittenberg University, Isaac Cason majored in Biology and minored in Africana Studies. He was heavily involved in community service at Wittenberg, including his work with The Hagen Center, where he acted as Community Service Coordinator to lead service trips and classes. He also led the Concerned Black Students organization as president and was a founding member of the Lesotho Nutrition Initiative, a program at Wittenberg that provides food supplements to malnourished children in Lesotho, Africa. His work with Lesotho began with participation in a month-long study abroad program there that gave him the opportunity to learn about the local culture and language while completing community service. Isaac’s hobbies include photography and adventuring, and he is most excited to meet new people in his time with PULSE. He is serving at the World Affairs Council of Pittsburgh.
Kelsey Thompson: What has been the most valuable part of the PULSE experience so far?
Isaac Cason: The most valuable part has been learning how to live in a community with people of different backgrounds, thoughts, and opinions. A lot of growth, patience, and understanding. This is something I wouldn’t have sought out if I wasn’t in a program like PULSE, since people usually seek out peers with similarities.
Kelsey: Tell me something you are learning about yourself through PULSE.
Isaac: I’m learning that I’m a lot better at lesson planning and interacting as a teacher than I thought I would be. Initially, I was really nervous about how I was going to fit in with more experienced teachers. But, I’ve been able to adapt well with their help and coaching.
Kelsey: Describe a typical day at your nonprofit partnership.
Isaac: I usually start off the mornings doing lesson planning for different schools. I usually end up going over the lesson plans with co-workers before going out to the different schools (Penn Hills, Braschear, and Perry). At the schools, I do an ice breaker to begin each lesson and then teach a leadership-type course or global awareness course (refugees vs. immigrants, what is culture?, globalization and its importance).
Kelsey: What’s your favorite “family meal” recipe for the house?
Isaac: My favorite meal experience was when our whole house did a Thanksgiving dinner. We cooked for three hours. We had roasted chicken, stuffing, mashed potatoes, green beans, cranberry sauce, mac and cheese, and pie and warm spiced cider. The experience of us laughing and struggling through the process was enjoyable and totally worth it. We invited Wayne, our Program Coordinator, over and he was able to enjoy it with us.
Kelsey: What is the best part of the PULSE experience?
Isaac: The best part is learning new things…life man. A lot of learning and growth about yourself. A lot of us are still figuring out what we’re trying to do so it’s nice to be surrounded by people who you can connect with and figure it out together. PULSE gives you a system of support as you transition into the real world.
Story by PULSE Participant Kelsey Thompson.
Read more Participant Stories from Fellows about their experience in PULSE. If you would like to learn more about the PULSE program, please visit our Serve with Us page.
Also, check out other Stories of Transformation: