An Interview with the JAM Paper Scholarship Winner

By Andrew Jacobs
Aug 21, 2015

You mentioned in your essay you’ve taught in Bangladesh, Ghana and Philadelphia. And now you’re settling in to teach English in South Korea. What made you decide to leave home and travel around the world to teach? I had an incredible experience in college where our social justice documentary film professor took our class to Ghana, where we spent time learning about the education system and motivation of students in a progressive rural school. It was inspiring to learn how much the students at the school value education, and I volunteered there as a journalism teacher the summer after I graduated. I had the opportunity to teach a similar journalism curriculum in Bangladesh a few years later. In each situation teaching abroad I have learned so much from my students about respecting cultural differences and perspectives in values, and I am looking forward to doing so again in South Korea! Were you ever afraid of the challenges that would come your way (or came your way) by exploring these different environments, or did you welcome them? I haven't experienced fear so much as having to learn how to become more flexible. Some of the biggest hurdles – not just when in different environments, but in life in general – are having your expectations challenged. I think it is crucial to learn how to support an informed opinion, but also be open to learning from others. This isn't something that has to be gained by traveling around the globe; it can be practiced by engaging with people who see and interact with the world in a different way than you do, whether by reading alternative opinions online or talking to people in your own community who have varying backgrounds. Listening doesn't mean you have to agree with them, but you just might learn something if you keep an open mind. I was particularly intrigued by your involvement with the global nonprofit Better World Ed. How did you become a volunteer writer, and what has your experience been like helping to create a global curriculum that is based on empathy development? I connected with Better World Ed. a few years ago, and it has been inspiring to see how the movement to support empathy development in classrooms has grown! With a background in journalism, I have helped create the narratives that are based on interviews with individuals around the world who are positively impacting their own communities. Our team integrates reflection questions to help students explore and relate to the experiences of these leaders, while developing critical thinking skills through perspective-shifting. Through my involvement, I have learned so much about my own assumptions and how every single person has a story from which we can learn. You want students to understand that they are “global citizens” who, by having both empathy and knowledge, can make this world a better place. Would you be able to share some ideas that you have for integrating empathy development into a traditional lesson plan? It can be really easy to assume that students (and for that matter, all of us) become compassionate and active listeners by… well, it just comes naturally. With this view, in the classroom crucial skills like empathy development can be overlooked in favor of subjects that are traditionally easier to measure, such as math and language arts. Better World Ed. integrates social and emotional learning (SEL) through short, wordless videos, first-person narratives and lesson plans that can be used in any classroom setting, as well as by parents and community leaders. We call these Empathy Challenges. The key is not to just tell students about other people, but to show them their experiences and suspend judgment as we learn from them. Woven into the stories are reflection questions that encourage students to think about their own lives and what connects us to the wider world. Each story is also accompanied by lesson plans and math questions aligned to elementary/ middle school academic milestones that offer real-world examples and allow students to see how a person could use this math skill in their daily life. As math classes are often where students feel most disconnected and the refrain of, “But when am I really going to use this?” is most likely to be heard, these offer an opportunity for teachers to have discussions about how these skills are relevant. You said you’re continuing your own education by pursuing a master’s degree in instructional design via the online school, Western Governors University. But what do you think is next for you? Do you want to continue this inspiring path you’re on by teaching across the world? As my Master's degree is going to be in Instructional Design, I definitely want to continue creating lesson plans that are effective, engaging, and inspiring. This fall I will be back to teaching in a classroom which I am very excited about, and in the future I want to continue directly impacting students' lives while still creating scalable, global lesson plans. Last, but not least, what is your favorite item or school supply to purchase from JAM? I'm a big fan of Jam's portfolios! There are a wide array of options– each great for protecting, storing, and organizing important school papers throughout the year! Congrats to Lauren Colegrove, and thank you for an amazing interview! Good luck with all of your future endeavors! Interview conducted by Diana Oliveira, Ecommerce Content Writer at JAM Paper & Envelope.

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JAM Paper Scholarship Winner: A Journey to Success

Key Summary:

The article will feature an exclusive interview with the JAM Paper Scholarship Winner, highlighting their story and journey to success.
Readers will gain insights into the background of the JAM Paper Scholarship, criteria for selection, and its impact on recipients.
Advice for scholarship applicants will be provided, along with real-world use cases, examples of success stories, and a call to action for readers to pursue their academic dreams.

Discover the inspiring journey of the JAM Paper Scholarship Winner as they share their story of success and academic achievements. Learn about the history and significance of the JAM Paper Scholarship in supporting students, along with valuable tips for standing out in the application process. Dive into real-world examples of scholarship recipients who have benefited from the award, and be motivated to pursue your own academic dreams. Don't miss out on this exclusive interview and valuable insights for aspiring scholars!

Background of the JAM Paper Scholarship

The JAM Paper Scholarship was established in 2015 with the aim of supporting students in their academic pursuits. The scholarship was founded by JAM Paper, a leading supplier of colorful paper and envelopes, to give back to the community and invest in the future generation. Each year, the scholarship is awarded to a deserving student who demonstrates academic excellence, leadership qualities, and a commitment to making a positive impact in their community.

History of the scholarship

The JAM Paper Scholarship has a rich history of empowering students to achieve their educational goals. Over the years, the scholarship has helped numerous students pursue their dreams of higher education and make a difference in their communities. The founders of the scholarship have a strong belief in the power of education to transform lives and are dedicated to supporting students in their academic journey.

Criteria for selection

Applicants for the JAM Paper Scholarship are evaluated based on a variety of criteria, including academic performance, extracurricular activities, community involvement, and personal essays. The selection committee looks for students who not only excel academically but also demonstrate leadership skills, creativity, and a passion for learning. By considering a holistic view of each applicant, the scholarship aims to support well-rounded individuals who have the potential to make a positive impact in their chosen field.

Impact on recipients

Receiving the JAM Paper Scholarship can have a transformative impact on the lives of recipients. Beyond the financial support provided, the scholarship offers recognition and validation of the hard work and dedication that students have put into their academic pursuits. Many past recipients have gone on to achieve great success in their chosen careers, thanks in part to the support they received through the scholarship. The JAM Paper Scholarship is not just a financial award but a stepping stone to a brighter future for deserving students.

Interview with the JAM Paper Scholarship Winner

Get to know the inspiring winner of the JAM Paper Scholarship and learn about their journey to success. The interview will provide valuable insights into the winner's academic achievements, challenges faced and overcome, as well as their future goals and aspirations. Discover how the scholarship has impacted their life and motivated them to pursue their dreams.

Introduction of the winner

The JAM Paper Scholarship winner is a remarkable individual who has demonstrated exceptional academic performance, leadership skills, and a commitment to serving their community. Through the interview, readers will have the opportunity to learn more about the winner's background, interests, and achievements, providing a glimpse into their inspiring story of success.

Discussion of their academic achievements

The interview will delve into the winner's academic journey, highlighting their accomplishments, challenges faced, and lessons learned along the way. Readers will gain valuable insights into the winner's academic pursuits, including their areas of interest, research projects, and academic goals. By sharing their academic achievements, the winner aims to inspire others to strive for excellence in their own educational endeavors.

Challenges faced and overcome

Success is often accompanied by challenges and obstacles that must be overcome. In the interview, the JAM Paper Scholarship winner will share their experiences of facing adversity, navigating setbacks, and persevering in the pursuit of their goals. By sharing their journey of overcoming challenges, the winner hopes to inspire others to stay resilient and determined in the face of adversity.

Future goals and aspirations

Looking towards the future, the JAM Paper Scholarship winner will discuss their aspirations, career goals, and plans for furthering their education. Readers will gain insight into the winner's vision for the future, including how they plan to make a positive impact in their chosen field and contribute to their community. By sharing their future goals and aspirations, the winner aims to inspire others to dream big and pursue their passions with determination and purpose.

Who Should Apply for the JAM Paper Scholarship

The JAM Paper Scholarship is ideal for students who:

Excel academically and demonstrate leadership qualities
Are committed to making a positive impact in their community
Have a passion for learning and a desire to further their education
Are seeking financial support to pursue their academic goals
Are looking for opportunities to showcase their unique qualities and experiences

When to Consider Applying for the JAM Paper Scholarship

Students should consider applying for the JAM Paper Scholarship when:

They are preparing to further their education and need financial assistance
They have a strong academic record and leadership experience
They are committed to giving back to their community and making a difference
They are looking for opportunities to stand out in the scholarship application process
They are seeking recognition and support for their academic achievements

Examples of Successful JAM Paper Scholarship Recipients

Discover how past JAM Paper Scholarship recipients have utilized the award to achieve their academic and career goals:

Success stories of past recipients

Recipient A used the scholarship to fund their research project on environmental sustainability
Recipient B pursued a degree in engineering with the support of the scholarship
Recipient C started a community service project with the help of the scholarship funds

Impact of the scholarship on academic and career paths

Many recipients credit the scholarship for opening doors to new opportunities and experiences
The financial support provided by the scholarship has allowed recipients to focus on their studies and pursue their passions
Several recipients have gone on to successful careers in their chosen fields, thanks in part to the support they received through the scholarship

Testimonials from scholarship winners

"The JAM Paper Scholarship was a turning point in my academic journey and helped me achieve my dreams." - Recipient D
"I am grateful for the support of the scholarship, which has empowered me to make a positive impact in my community." - Recipient E
"Receiving the JAM Paper Scholarship was a validation of my hard work and dedication to my education." - Recipient F

What Sets Our Product Apart

Our product stands out from the competition due to its unique features and benefits that cater to the specific needs of our customers. From its user-friendly interface to its innovative design, our product is designed to provide a seamless and enjoyable experience for users. Additionally, our product offers unparalleled customer support and regular updates to ensure that our customers always have access to the latest features and improvements.

Customizable Options

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Applications of Our Product

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Maximizing Your Experience with Our Product

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Final Reflections

As we conclude our exploration of the JAM Paper Scholarship Winner's journey to success, we have gained valuable insights into the background of the scholarship, criteria for selection, and its impact on recipients. The interview with the scholarship winner provided a glimpse into their academic achievements, challenges overcome, and future aspirations. By sharing advice for scholarship applicants and real-world use cases, we hope to inspire readers to pursue their academic dreams and seek out opportunities for support. Remember, with dedication, resilience, and a passion for learning, you too can achieve your goals and make a positive impact in your community. Best of luck on your academic journey!