“What is Ashoka?” is a question I receive often. Although I had heard of Ashoka before my introduction to it through my introductory SISE class, I knew it was not a popular institution among people in my category – college kid, taking classes, living in a city known to many peers for its Mardi Gras celebrations. However, I am still disappointed every time to hear that someone does not understand what Ashoka, a social innovation machine and institution, does or what purpose it serves. When Tulane sent out an email on the Changemakers Listserv that stated open spots for Ashoka U, I knew I had to take advantage of it. I am sure a lot of people did not feel the same.

This opportunity allowed me to expand my interests in the realm of Social Innovation and Social Entrepreneurialship. I did not have a lot of experience in the topic, and I knew that I wanted more. I thought that if someone was intriguing enough I would change my “career” path. And I did. I am currently serving as an AmeriCorps VISTA Fellow through Tulane University, and it was all due to my Intro to SISE class and the required service learning component. I was only edged on through Ashoka U as they asked the large congregation “Who has served as an AmeriCorps in this room?” and a few people stood up. I was inspired. I wanted to know more.

In terms of the actual experience itself, I learned much more about B-corps than I had ever thought I would. I highly recommend plugging that phrase, “B-corps,” into your Google search bar and explore away. The conference itself made me question everything: my role in society, what I wanted to do with my life, and how people make a living our of social innovation. I learned more than I could have ever imagined, and I made more friends than I had expected. It was overall a wonderful experience that prompted a new way of thinking about the world – a holistic way of approaching problems – that I would not have had were it not for Tulane University and grants provided through the SISE program. Thanks, y’all!