This program was my very first experience working with kids in the context of environmental education, and I have never led a class or group of kids in any context before Aves Compartidas. Therefore, while I knew it was going to be hard work, I did not know just how many challenges I would be faced with while facilitating lessons in and out of the classroom. From this experience, I have learned so many valuable lessons. 

Understanding, and being content with the fact that most things will not go according to the plan/lesson plan is something I had to learn during the weeks of being inside the classroom. While there is a lesson plan in place to help structure the time period, one cannot anticipate all of the things that might happen before, or during the facilitation of the lesson. This may be due to things such as forgetting materials, learning new information that will change the lesson, or the atmosphere and behavior of the class. While it may seem like an easy enough lesson to remember, being able to pivot and react accordingly is very important. 

On a similar note, being able to be adaptable is another lesson I have learned throughout my time teaching in the Aves Compartidas program. Pivoting and thinking fast on your feet, while still keeping your composure to guide the lesson through to the end is a balancing act I did not know I was able to do before this. Staying calm and level headed, and asking for help when you are unsure of the next step is key to working as an educator and on a team.

 Lastly, and possibly the most important lesson I have learned throughout my time with Aves Compartidas is to believe in myself. Before this experience, I would have described myself as unsure of myself and not a leader. But as the weeks went on, I found myself becoming more confident in my ability to take up space in a room, and leading a class of 23 students successfully every single week. My personal growth and empowerment is the thing I am the most proud of.