Et cetera : AmeriCorps NCCC Class 19 Corps Member Spotlight: Dana Coleby

Dana Coleby, from Utiza, N.Y., is a member of Cedar 5 in NCCC’s Class 19. She arrived in Vinton on February 5, 2013, to start her 10-month service term on a team of people between the ages of 18 and 24. Cedar 5 is made up of eight people from across the country, and they are serving together in a number of service projects across the North Central Region throughout their term.

“I have always been interested in community service and did a lot in high school,” Dana said. “During college, it was too difficult to plan time for school work, my job and volunteer work. After learning about this program, I thought it would be the perfect opportunity after I graduated because I won't have to worry about school and I can spend my time doing something worthwhile.”

Dana brings several skills with her to NCCC, which help her be successful throughout her term with the program. She works well with others and has an understanding of Spanish and Japanese, though she is not completely fluent in them. “I also have an open mind and am willing to learn and do my best with whatever the program has to offer,” she added.

Prior to joining NCCC, Dana was working part-time. She graduated from Nazareth College in May 2012 with a degree in anthropology and a minor in Spanish. She also graduated from Notre Dame High School in June 2008. After finishing the program, Dana hopes to either join the Peace Corps or go to grad school.

Dana has had several unique experiences that have helped shape who she is today. “I was able to study abroad in Spain, which was very nerve-racking and exciting, but gave me the chance to travel a little around Europe and meet very interesting people,” she said. “I was also a Site Coordinator for Partners for Learning (a tutoring program), which was a unique experience because it gave me a greater respect for the people who did the job before me and taught me the very definition of the word PATIENCE.”

Cedar 5’s current project runs from May 23 to June 25 with Homestead National Monument in Beatrice, Neb. The team is working with park visitors, providing educational programs to students, removing invasive plant species, and working on park events.

Some fun facts about Dana:

Q: What is your favorite movie? The Hunchback of Notre Dame, The Princess Bride, The Nightmare Before Christmas

Q: What is your favorite book? Staying Fat for Sarah Byrnes by Chris Cratcher

Q: What is your favorite candy? Chocolate with almonds or Reeses

Q: What is your favorite food? Cheeseburger, grits + eggs, bacon

Q: What is your favorite animal? Lynx, the cat family, husky

Q: What is one place in the world you really wish you could visit? Japan, Scotland

Q: What do you like to do in your free time? Read, TV, movies