Jumpstart alum, Andrew Di Sorbo, volunteered more than 900 hours of his time to serve preschool children in the low-income community of East Boston 

When I joined Jumpstart, I saw it as nothing more than an extracurricular activity. Little did I know that I would be working with a partner child each week....and that it would change both our lives forever....


Going into the community of East Boston was like stepping into a different world. However, from the minute I stepped into the preschool, I knew that Jumpstart was the right choice for me. On the first day, the children were so excited to see us and I could not help but be excited right along with them. One child dubbed me ‘Red Sox’ after my ever present hat, and sure enough, the name stuck. This child, Malcolm, also became my first partner child.

The highlights of my week were those moments spent with Malcolm. Watching him grow throughout the year was one of the most rewarding things I have ever been a part of. After working with Malcolm for a year, I did not think it could get any better. I was wrong. My Jumpstart Site Manager wanted me to lead a team of college students. I never considered myself to be a leader, but this new position helped me build confidence in myself and my abilities to lead a group of my peers. I was so comfortable with Jumpstart and so enthusiastic about the program that I made it my goal to give my team a glimpse as to why I love Jumpstart.

I was proud to see not only the children grow, but my fellow college student volunteers grow. I watched genuine friendships form before my eyes. I saw the same excitement I had had when my partner child mastered something revealed in the faces of my team when their partner wrote their name or read aloud for the first time. As time progressed, I also realized I was making a mistake if I were to continue with my current major of biochemistry/forensics. I would be ignoring something that I am passionate about. I want to do my part to help the education system, and I have decided to pursue a Master’s Degree in education.

Without Jumpstart, I would never have found my true calling. I am proud to put on a Jumpstart shirt and be a part of something amazing. Through my Jumpstart experiences, I know that I have made a difference. As a future teacher, I know for sure that I will make a difference for many children for years to come.