We’re excited this month to highlight AmeriCorps Member Kennedi Smith! Kennedi is a Changemaker passionate about helping others thrive. While working on her Master’s Degree at Georgia State, she serves as a Student Success Coach through AmeriCorps, in addition to volunteering throughout Atlanta. Learn more about her journey to AmeriCorps, and how she’s shaping the future!
Check out the interview below!
Why did you join AmeriCorps?
I joined AmeriCorps because I wanted to give back to my community in a meaningful way while also gaining hands-on experience in education and public health. Serving as a Student Success Coach allows me to pour into students the same way others poured into me, and to help close gaps in learning and confidence for young people.
What do you like most about working with your students?
What I like most about working with my students is the comfortable environment I’ve been able to create with them. When they run up to me just to share something small, give me a hug, or call my name, it really makes my day. Even though the school year just started, I’ve already seen little pieces of advice—like reminding them it’s okay to ask the teacher for help or encouraging them to come out of their shell—make a difference. Watching them grow, even in small ways, is what I enjoy most.
What do you hope to gain from this experience?
I hope to grow as both a mentor and a professional. This role will strengthen my leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills, while also giving me a deeper understanding of the challenges students face. Ultimately, I want to take these experiences with me into my future career in health education and promotion.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
In five years, I see myself working in public health—designing programs that promote mental health, wellness, and education for underserved communities. I also hope to be in a position where I’m still mentoring young people, because that’s something I’ve found I truly enjoy.
“I hope to grow as both a mentor and a professional. This role will strengthen my leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills, while also giving me a deeper understanding of the challenges students face. Ultimately, I want to take these experiences with me into my future career in health education and promotion.”
What do you love about Atlanta?
I love Atlanta because it’s truly shaped who I am. Growing up here, I was surrounded by diversity and got to see people who looked like me in every position, which taught me early on that I could do anything. The city’s resilience and culture gave me a sense of pride and drive that I carry with me today. Now, being able to serve students in the same city that raised me feels full circle, and it means a lot to give back to a place that’s poured so much into me.
Are you interested in learning more about a year of service through the Hands On Atlanta AmeriCorps program? Click here to see all the program benefits, what you’ll do and more!
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