Peter Stephan's devotion to public service grew in the corps, which led him to law school, followed by jobs at the Department of Justice and the Department of Veterans Affairs.

Q & A

What led you to apply to Teach For America?

As a senior, I had to decide between a Fulbright scholarship abroad and TFA. I chose TFA because I wanted an opportunity to give back for the excellent educational opportunities I had growing up in this country. I also connected with a TFA corps member in Mississippi who sold me on the program and helped me apply and became my wife!

What were some of the major lessons you learned during the corps? When you think about yourself before and after the corps, what changed?

One of the largest changes I experienced before and after the corps was increased self-confidence and growth in my leadership and communication skills. Having to present to students who give you no leeway to be boring for 40 hours a week for two years, I really learned how to engage an audience.

How did you use the skills and beliefs you developed in the corps?

A teacher’s role is similar to a project manager, with set goals and milestones. My TFA experience has been invaluable in large-scale systems reform.