SAYA Youth Guest Blog: SAYA Experiences

Written by: Eden Brown, ARISE

I joined SAYA’s ARISE program this summer as an incoming freshman in high school. During the summer I met lots of new people, learned how to communicate better, and had fun! SAYA offers many clubs that take place after program sessions. My favorite of them was the Food Club and Volleyball Club. Food Club exposed me to different cultures and different foods. Participating in the Volleyball Club helped me understand that the physical strength of a team can be good, but you have to know how to work together.

At SAYA, I was able to be myself and participate in lots of different ways - including group activities, which are not always my favorite things to do. However, SAYA made this fun and had a different take on group projects. 

SAYA taught me learning doesn't always have to be stressful and tiring, but can be fun and engaging. Thanks to SAYA, my summer was amazing - I’m glad that I chose to spend it here!