As a teacher, Samantha Lurie Carroll (St. Louis ’08) discovered that providing students with firsthand experiences was a more effective way to teach and engage them than simply reading about those experiences. In 2013, she and her students launched their first study abroad trip. From students in her class to students of the world, the educational benefits they gained from travel were insurmountable. Inspired by the trip’s success, Samantha felt that the same opportunity should be made available to more students. She co-founded Show Me The World Project, a nonprofit organization that helps students see the world and enrich their education, perspective, and experiences along the way.
- Grade and Subject Taught: High school special education
- Current Job/Sector: Nonprofit executive director
- Major/Alma Mater: B.A. in Psychology from Earlham College; Ed.M in Special Education from the University of Missouri - St. Louis; Ed.M. in Education Leadership from the University of Missouri - St. Louis
Looking back, how did the corps experience lead to where you are today?
As co-founder and executive director of Show Me The World Project, my current profession is deeply rooted in my teaching experience—particularly from my fifth year at my placement school, Vashon High School. It was during this time that the project took shape, sparked by engagement with students as we studied educational equity together. A pivotal moment was a school swap experience where we visited an affluent school for a day of shadowing and discussion. My students were struck by the vast learning opportunities available there, including an international education program. Inspired and determined, my students advocated for a similar opportunity, which led to the inception of our first educational international trip called “The Show Me Costa Rica Project.”
This project's success led to establishing Show Me The World Project as a nonprofit organization. I am happy to say that more than 150 students have embarked on their first international trip through this program. Our program continues to evolve, focusing on STEM, entrepreneurship, and global competencies, all aimed at creating globally minded leaders and preparing students for success in college and careers. I am incredibly proud to lead this organization and to continue the vision our students advocated for over a decade ago.
Tell us about skills you gained as a teacher. How did learning these skills empower you?
During my time as a teacher in the corps, I developed skills that continue to shape my leadership. Planning, communicating, connecting, and building relationships were fundamental to my teaching practice and remain central to my work today. These skills allow me to develop comprehensive programs, effectively communicate our mission, and build strong relationships with stakeholders.
Community collaborations were also a key part of my teaching experience. I learned that partnering with local organizations and community members enhanced the educational experience for all. Teaching also taught me to acknowledge and appreciate the strengths of people. This skill has translated into my leadership style, where I value and leverage the strengths of my team and community partners.
Learning these skills has evolved my perception of the role of a teacher. I now see teaching as more than imparting knowledge, it is a catalyst for driving change.
What student made a particularly big impact on you?
Sep’Tisha, a student of mine, initially struck me as quiet but diligent. Little did I know, she would become a beacon of courage and inspiration, teaching me a valuable lesson I carry with me every day: Be a woman who fearlessly breaks through barriers.
Sep’Tisha blossomed as a leader among the pioneering group of students at Vashon, boldly becoming the first to embark on international travel in the school's history. Despite the daunting challenge of raising funds to travel to Costa Rica, Sep’Tisha exuded confidence and determination. She tirelessly participated in fundraising events, completed every task with unwavering commitment, and motivated her peers to do the same.
Witnessing Sep’Tisha step out of her comfort zone and achieve numerous firsts was awe-inspiring: from being an international traveler in high school to becoming valedictorian, studying abroad for three months in college, and ultimately becoming a first-generation college graduate and a Teach For America corps member herself.
It was Sep’Tisha’s passion and commitment that inspired me to transform The Show Me The World Project into a nonprofit organization, alongside my co-founders, and dedicate myself full time to expanding access to life-changing opportunities. Thank you Sep’Tisha for teaching Ms. Lurie more than she could ever possibly teach you!
What advice do you have for people who want to make a difference?
My advice is simple: Be bold enough to start. Don't wait for the perfect moment. Instead, take action and make progress. Embrace imperfection, for it is the courage to begin that ultimately leads to greatness. Start small, but start now, and you'll be amazed at the impact you can have!
Here are four ways to start:
- Listen to the voices around you: Engage and immerse yourself within your community. Ask for their perspective and be curious about their experiences.
- Identify a Problem: Look for issues or challenges within your community, or beyond, that need attention.
- Collect Data: Gather informal or formal data to understand the scope and impact of the problem.
- Collaborate With Others: There is power in numbers. Including diverse viewpoints can lead to more effective solutions.