VA D G A*

Greetings! You have found your browser window open to this website because you have either expressed interest in taking an Americorps VISTA position in Greensboro, Alabama or because you are implausibly lucky.

Whether your being on this website was merely fate or simply good fortune is unimportant at this time. What is important, however, is that you are here. Welcome. The ensuing pages will help us determine which position you would be best suited for should you be accepted as an M Lab Americorps VISTA for the 2010—11 year.

Ready to begin? Good. Use the and any  Green Links  in each section to move your browser forward to the next milestone.

*Everyone loves a good acronym. VADGA stands for VISTA Assignment Description for Greensboro, AL

You’re a male and you’re proud! Please take a moment to read this authoritative and revealing tale of a female, as she details her flight from that of ordinary graphic designer to one of shining volunteer! Enjoy.

Once there was a girl named Megan. She had just finished her studies in graphic design at CCS – she was happy. One day, Megan was bitten on the shoulder by the Project M Bug. What commenced thereafter was a series of serendipitous events, that essentially propelled Megan into a whirlwind of excitement and life-altering experiences. With little more than a second thought, Megan boarded a plane and jetted off to blustery Belfast, Maine to participate in a Project M Blitz, one that would eventually instigate a little movement called ‘Free Pie,’ and later PieLab(!)

It was during this M session that Megan’s fate as an Americorps Vista Volunteer slash Co-director of the Project M Lab was ultimately sealed. The account goes something like this: Megan finds out about the position on a friday morning. Megan finds out that the application deadline for the position is in fact that very day. Megan hyperventilates. Megan hastily applies for the position after one too many rounds of ale. Next day, Megan’s phone rings; it’s Wendy. Wendy discusses the position with Megan. Megan asks questions. Wendy answers them honestly. Megan calls her mom. Megan realizes that Wendy’s real name is actually Serah. Megan throws up her arms and screams, “WHY NOT?!!!!” and the rest my friends is what they call history.

You’re female and you’re well aware. Please take a moment
to read this classic and enlightening tale of Ryan's transformation from lowly graphic design student to shining volunteer! Please, do read carefully.

Once upon a time there was a boy named Ryan. He was a junior at MICA. He was unhappy—tired of working so hard only to receive a grade. He wanted to see his work be applied and actually matter. After searching for alternatives to completing his senior year in Baltimore, he proposed a transfer to his academic advisor. She said the idea was “impossible.” He was not satisfied with this answer, so instead consulted his most respected and trusted professor. Ryan's professor mentioned that a Designer/Thinker named John Bielenberg was visiting Baltimore soon and might have an opportunity for him. After an intimidating introduction, Ryan emailed John and inquired about the position.

A couple of weeks later, Ryan was on his way to Greensboro to interview. After spending one of the most amazing and comfortable few days of his life with Serah (his tour guide through Greensboro), Ryan knew what he needed to do. On his return to Baltimore, he kept his head down and charged through the rest of his junior semester. Only two weeks after he finished, he was in Greensboro for what would be the next year of his life.

You’ve finally arrived at the Scientifically Substantiated Survey section. In the following few pages, you will be asked a series of situational questions. Answer honestly and to the best of your ability. Please keep track of your answers as they will help us determine which Americorps VISTA position at M Lab is right for you! Ready? Set… Go!