By John Stuetz ’20M

Audrey Chin ’24 is a member of the first Social Action and Justice Education (SAJE) Fellowship cohort at Arcadia University. The fellowship will provide preparatory programs and leadership training for SAJE fellows to teach in culturally and linguistically diverse classrooms—aiming to address the nationwide shortage of educators of color by recruiting and retaining fellows who lead schools, programs, and educational opportunities geared toward diversity, equity, and social justice.

What is your hometown?
I am from Lafayette Hill. It’s not exactly a bustling area but is a wonderful, quiet community in the suburbs.

From what high school did you graduate?
I graduated from Plymouth Whitemarsh High School. I was a part of the school’s music program and participated in a few clubs such as UNICEF Club and Latin Club. I had some amazing teachers during my four years there, and I can’t wait to visit them in the future! 

What are some of your favorite hobbies? 
I enjoy listening to music and hanging out with my friends! I appreciate a good nap once in a while and love to eat! I have also been playing the violin for a couple years, but I decided to take a break this summer. During quarantine, I’ve especially been relying on Netflix; one of my favorite shows, Lucifer, is releasing its next season in August, so I’m super excited!

Do you expect to find others with similar interests at Arcadia?
I hope that I’ll be able to find others with similar interests at Arcadia! I’m always ready to make new friends and learn about new interests as well.

Who are a few musical artists that have been on your “quarantine playlist”? Any go-to tracks?
I’ve recently started listening to an artist by the name of Sasha Sloan. I love her voice, and I admire how “real” her music is. My go-to track for now has been “Any song” by ZICO. I love the vibes that this song gives off, and it’s just super refreshing and upbeat.

What are some of your favorite social media follows right now? Any reasons why?
I’m currently following some accounts that make comics. They’re incredibly entertaining, relatable, and cute, so I’m enjoying those accounts right now. I don’t follow this account, but for the past week or so, I’ve gone down a rabbit hole of AITA reddit posts. It’s interesting to see other people’s opinions on a variety of situations, as this specific account includes posts with all sorts of events.

So, you’re a prestigious SAJE Fellow. Congratulations! How did you hear about the SAJE Fellowship?
I heard about the fellowship through email. I’m incredibly grateful that someone reached out to me about the SAJE Fellowship; otherwise, I may not have had the amazing opportunity to be a part of this wonderful group of cohorts.

The SAJE Fellowship is a cohort of students pursuing careers as educators for social justice. First, what led to your interest in pursuing the field of education?
I really enjoy helping others in and outside the classroom. I would tutor or advise my friends if they were struggling with curriculum that I was confident in, and there’s an indescribable feeling that occurs when a light bulb goes off in their head. Furthermore, I believe that the education system acts as the foundation for many people’s lives. Thus, I want to help provide the best foundation for future students, aiding the next generation to be confident and successful individuals.

And what were some of the factors that contributed to your interest in pursuing such a career through the SAJE Fellowship specifically?
I understand that there is a shortage of educators of color throughout the country. I wanted to contribute in diversifying the nationwide pool of educators, as well as be a model to those who are people of color and wish to enter the field of education but are hesitant due to the lack of representation.

Switching gears, it’s of course a unique time for our country, with renewed awareness and focus on the systemic racism that has long existed in America. Has anything stood out to you most regarding issues of race and social justice this year? 
I am so proud that a movement against systemic racism has risen. We are once more calling for much needed change in our society, and I am confident that this generation will be able to persevere in this fight for equality. 

What is a quote you wish everyone would live by?
“Good vibes only.” 

It’s okay to feel. It’s unrealistic to only have “good vibes”, and it can be incredibly pressuring to be optimistic all the time.

Is there anything else you would like the Arcadia community to know about you before signing off?
I’m super excited to be a part of the Arcadia community and look forward to making new friends! I’m especially ecstatic to be a SAJE fellow and work towards making a change.