Emily Row (Haas): Operating with love while empowering others

Hi Emily! Can you tell us about some memorable or meaningful experiences you had in college?

My experience working with Peckham employees, as well as the elementary students at Edgewood, were both meaningful experiences that solidified my desire to work alongside historically marginalized populations.

How about some influential professors?

Professor Jackson, Dean Esquith, Professor Skeen, and Professor Miner.

 

"I was attracted to the intimate classroom experience,
the strong focus and involvement in civic engagement,
and the wealth of educational opportunities
unrestricted by a narrow pathway or major." 

 

What are you doing now?

My current title is horticulture specialist at the Virginia School for the Deaf and the Blind. My time is split between facilitating environmentally based classes in our outdoor classrooms—farm, gardens, etc.—managing the school gardens. As a non-formal educator, I take a holistic approach to learning by incorporating math, science, English, life skills, and health into my lessons. I work with students of all abilities. 

Interesting—how long have you been there?

Since 2017.

Where were you previously?

World Hunger Relief, Inc.—a farm in Waco, Texas.

What led you to RCAH as a high school student?  

I was attracted to the intimate classroom experience, the strong focus and involvement in civic engagement, and the wealth of educational opportunities unrestricted by a narrow pathway or major. 

How did RCAH prepare you for your career?

RCAH staff and students validated my questions and encouraged me to find solutions for those unanswered. Because my classes were deeply tied to the greater Lansing community and outside of a traditional classroom setting, I felt myself expanding my world view as well as growing in confidence.

Does some combination of the arts, humanities, and community engagement still play a role in your life?

It’s everything. That’s not a flowery way of saying it, but it’s true. I’m continuously learning to question my motivations and lean toward justice. In every aspect of my life, I desire to operate with love while empowering others.

Anything else you would like to add about your RCAH experience?

I stand by the College and support its mission wholeheartedly. I agree that graduates must advocate for themselves when interviewing for positions—something I was told over and over during my time at MSU. But through advocating for my education, I’ve learned to advocate for myself. I look forward to the future with hopes of an ever-evolving perspective.