Nasheba Kitchener
Myself Third Spirit of New York 2002 Scholarship Winner
South Shore High School
Kingsborough Community College
"Nasheba's English class was in our Scholars Institute, and as such was an intensive college preparatory class, focusing on critical thinking and reading skills via-a-vis an examination of American literature. Nasheba proved to be one of the most enthusiastic and hard working students I have ever encountered.… She is on the executive board of our academic and service honor societies. She earned this honor by maintaining her average while serving school and community in such activities as the Fencing Team, teacher monitor and tutor. She serves as a role model to all our students because she holds herself to the highest academic standards while contributing to the community in a positive manner."
—Valerie Martin, English Teacher
Work, Volunteer, and Extra-Curricular Activities
- Arista National Honor Society
- Archon South Shore Service Honor Society
- Science & Humanitarian Clubs
- Teen Tutor
Excerpts from Nasheba's Essay
Civic responsibility is our duty as citizens to improve the society in which we live. As I interpret it, civic responsibility requires me to help not only those who are less fortunate, but people that are like me as well.
I have lived up to my civic responsibilities by having become a member of South Shore High School's Humanitarian Club…, an organization that dedicates its time and services to the various needs of the community…and raises money for various charities that benefit men, women and children.…
A particular experience that I avidly remember is when the club members and I volunteered at the local Salvation Army.… One of the people I remember the most was a man I met named John… [who] was incredibly intelligent but not a high school graduate. Unfortunately, his intelligence couldn't protect him from being laid off… In speaking with John, I became more aware of the difficulties and hardships that faced a person living on the streets.
This particular experience taught me several valuable lessons. …that we should appreciate things that we have now,… [and] the importance of getting not only a high school diploma, but a college degree as well. John explained to me that he realized if he had gotten a degree, he probably would have been able to find another job and in effect, keep his family. Lastly, I learned that volunteering did not require giving away something tangible.… Simply sitting and speaking with members in my community helped to make my fellow community members feel better about themselves.
Fulfilling my civic responsibilities has helped me make a difference. … The activities that I have participated in have set an example for others to follow. I have seen more of my fellow students take initiative to participate in programs that help them fulfill their civic responsibilities. This in effect will result in a healthier environment and an improved society.
Serving my civic responsibilities has had an impact on my future plans and goals. It has inspired me to become a counselor and to help teenagers overcome the numerous problems that they may face as they go through adolescence. In counseling today's youth and helping them to feel better about themselves, I know that I will be helping insure a better society for the future.
