From the president
Rafael Volkamer-Pastor ’27 is a sophomore who is double majoring in physics and mathematics. He has served as a Northfield Public Library Spanish Language Programming Assistant through the Center for Community and Civic Engagement (CCCE)’s community based work study program for two years. Rafael is particularly interested in using his Spanish language skills to narrow the digital divide in our community. Our local public library has ambitious goals to provide a robust array of bilingual services in our small town, but it has limited staff capacity. Through the contributions of students like Rafael, the library is able to offer better support for residents who need help using computers and completing essential online applications. Over these last two, Rafael has become a trusted resource in the local community. We are eager to see how his community work can develop further through the Newman Civic Fellowship.
Personal Statement
Born into a quadrilingual household in Boulder, Colorado, language has always played a key role in how I engage with my community. I currently work at the Northfield Public Library, spending my time running free language and computer courses for the entire Northfield community. A current project I am leading focuses on bridging the digital divide in the Hispanic community. I teach Spanish-speaking adults how to use computers from the basics of the google workspace to the intricacies of applying digitally for health insurance and better paying jobs to support their families. Through this, I have witnessed incredible growth in a community far too alienated from the digital revolution. In addition to technological courses, I also run conversation tables in both Spanish and English. Some of the greatest satisfaction I experience at Carleton comes from watching my students grow linguistically, unlocking new communities, discovering new careers, familiarizing with new cultures, and building self-confidence. The open heart and dedication I bring to every project is deeply rooted in the values instilled in me from an early age. Driven by cultivating a strong connection to my community, I am eager to carry this commitment forward in all my endeavors.