At SEED, we believe that each school year presents an opportunity for students to be engaged, involved, and stimulated by the world around them. That’s why, through SEED’s Experiential Learning and External Opportunities programming, our students study abroad, engage in leadership programs, secure internships, and participate in local and international community service projects.
Imani Graham began devoting her free time to community service as a sophomore at The SEED School of Washington, D.C. Her commitment to volunteerism continued after she graduated from SEED and led her to helping high school students prepare for the SAT at a local church. She also volunteered during her summers at STEM camps to create lessons plans and to organize fun activities for young campers.
“While at SEED, I was offered a lot of opportunities to perform community service. I was encouraged to do something I would enjoy—and it always felt good to give back. I graduated from SEED with an award for highest community service.”
Through Imani’s community service blossomed a love for educating, and she is now serving as an educational aid for pre-K 4 students at Tyler Elementary School located in Washington, D.C. Read more about Imani’s path with SEED and how she landed a job she enjoys every day.
What college or university did you attend?
I graduated from Bennett College in 2018. I majored in psychology and minored in sociology.
How was your transition from SEED to college?
My transition from SEED was smooth. I was prepared for dorm life and being away from home—it was already a tool I had on my belt. I was also academically prepared, and I had the support of my College Transition & Success (CTS) advisor and twin sister who also enrolled at Bennett College.
Did you stay connected to SEED while in college?
My CTS advisor was Mr. Jordan Frasier. He would visit all the SEED graduates in the North Carolina area and treat us to dinner. It was always great to reconnect. He would also come on campus, help with any financial aid issues, and send packages and awards to keep us motivated. When he was away, he kept in contact by text, phone calls, and emails—just to make sure I wasn’t running into any challenges I needed support with overcoming.
It was helpful to have someone to communicate with other than my parents. I could chat with Mr. Frasier about school and received the extra encouragement I needed to keep up the good work.
What are you doing now that you have graduated from college?
Currently, I am working for DC Public Schools as an educational aid. As an educational aid, I assist the teacher with classroom management, help prepare lessons, and work one-on-one with students that may need extra support. I also am interested in real estate and am currently pursuing my real estate license. I have one more exam, and then I’ll be licensed!
I also serve as an ambassador for the United Negro College Fund (UNCF). I received most of my scholarship awards from this organization before attending Bennett, and remained connected throughout college. I often speak at galas and conferences to share my story and encourage donors to support UNCF to help more African American students get to and through college.
How did your experience at SEED impact you?
Before I came to SEED, I was really shy. SEED pushed me to step out of my comfort zone and offered so many opportunities to experience something new. After my first couple of experiences, I realized how much I enjoyed traveling and volunteering in my community, and it made me want to continue to push myself to try new things. My favorite experiences were camping, attending local plays, and traveling to Greece. I ultimately decided to go to college five hours away because of my experiences at SEED. I am grateful for the encouragement I received—it helped me expand my horizons.