Name: Julia Lawrence-Riddell
Hometown: Hamden, CT
College and Major: Boston University, class of 2027, Painting and Psychology
Tutor Site: Bristol Street
Clubs: Arts & Crafts and Math II
Favorite Childhood Book: Blueberries for Sal by Robert McCloskey
I have always been aware of New Haven Reads, but I never knew the true impact of the programs that they offer. I originally heard about the NHR book bank and tutoring programs from my neighbor, Fiona Bradford, who is the development & communications director for NHR. Years later, I saw that NHR offers summer internships, and I immediately knew that I wanted to apply. I was drawn to the position because I love working with children and also feel strongly about being involved in the greater New Haven community.
Not only have I been involved in tutoring the students, but I am thrilled that this job has given me insight into the array of programs, interventions, and incredible care that takes place behind the scenes. The environment that I have experienced at the NHR Bristol Street location is so welcoming. I genuinely look forward to coming into work every single day. I think the reason NHR cultivates such a warm environment is because you can tell that every staff member and tutor truly cares about the work that they are doing.
In my past jobs I have always been drawn to working with early elementary age students. However, I am so thankful that, at this job, I have the opportunity to work with students ranging all the way through high school. A stand out memory from this summer comes from my time working with an older student. She is very shy, but we immediately bonded over our shared love for art! She opens up the most when we draw together during choice time at the end of our tutoring hour. Through this time, I found out that she is very interested in Harry Potter. I told my colleagues, and we found “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone” in the book bank for her. Next session we started reading together, and I had never seen her so excited about reading!
I cannot explain enough how happy I have felt in my position as an NHR summer intern. I am looking forward to the rest of my time here this summer!
