When I graduated from Carleton College in June, I knew that I was ending a chapter of my life and beginning a new journey. I’d spent a lot of time over the year reflecting on my values, interests, and passions, in order to determine where I wanted to start my life as a college graduate. While it was difficult to leave Carleton, I am looking forward to the upcoming year. I’m excited to share that have decided to join the PULSE program in Pittsburgh, PA!
John Shal-Wert founded PULSE in the 1994, envisioning a program that would place talented college graduates into meaningful organizations where they could apply their skills and passions, while living with other like-minded individuals as part of a community. PULSE invites recent college graduates like myself to partner with local nonprofits for a year of service and leadership, cultivating a community of young servant leaders to transform Pittsburgh. Fellows live together in intentional communities and participate in a personal and professional development program. I got excited about PULSE because of my interest in investing in the revitalization and growth of cities through non-profit work.
During my time as a PULSE fellow, I look forward to connecting to the city of Pittsburgh and different communities within it. In the past, I have felt the most motivated and fulfilled when I am working to serve others and achieve greater public goals, and this program offers me an opportunity to work with an organization to directly affect change. Through serving in a nonprofit and living with other fellows, I hope to learn as a leader and community member. I hope to grow in my awareness of myself and others, and to continue my process of intentionally discerning and managing my values, intentions, and actions.
