Marie Sherman (C’20)

EDUCATIONAL STUDIES, GLOBAL STUDIES
Assistant Teacher, Sunrise of Africa School

“It was hands-down one of the best things I’ve ever done.” 

That’s how Marie describes her internship at the Sunrise of Africa School in Nairobi, Kenya. As an assistant teacher, she taught lessons, facilitated activities, and led the children in singing, art, and games. She loved working with the students and became best friends with a fellow teacher who hosted Marie during her stay.

Marie hadn’t traveled much before college, but a leadership trip to Switzerland and her participation in the Greece, Italy, and Turkey Abroad inspired her to do more. While attending a Principia College career fair, Marie met a student who recently interned at Sunrise of Africa School, and she put Marie in touch with the director. Within a week, Marie had secured an internship and a plane ticket to Kenya.

“I don’t think I would’ve done anything like this if I’d gone to another school.”

Marie attributes her global studies courses with preparing her to be a global citizen with an intention of learning from others rather than relying on one’s own preconceptions. Along with her global studies advisor, Marie worked closely with the Career Center, which helped her secure financial support to make the internship feasible.

Must-Take Courses: Visual Fundamentals; Life of Mary Baker Eddy

Favorite Principia Moment: It truly would be impossible to choose one. My time at Principia is an accumulation of many moments that created a life-changing experience for which I am immensely grateful.

Advice for Incoming Students: Take advantage of the opportunities that are in front of you while you’re at Principia. Dive in and try new things. Explore. Go on an abroad, for sure! I’m so grateful I was able to have the experiences that I did, which came from saying “OK, that sounds cool. I’m going to do it!”