DISABILITIES ADVOCATE INSPIRED TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE WITH MTCC AMERICORPS PROGRAM

Brittany Gwisdala, AmeriCorps Leader in Great Falls

Inspired to join AmeriCorps by a Peace Corps volunteer, Brittany Gwisdala is serving as an AmeriCorps Leader with the University of Great Falls and Girls Scouts of Montana & Wyoming in Great Falls, Montana. Brittany joined AmeriCorps to make a difference in education and believes that “Every Student, no matter their background, deserves a college education to not only benefit their own life, but to take the experiences they learn from college and give back to their communities. There is a difference between just being a student, and being a student who gets involved. Getting involved in the community is a great way to encourage others to do the same.”

A disabilities advocate, Brittany was no ordinary Ferris State (Michigan) college student. Accessing college through the Tuition Incentive Program and a financial aid package, she was involved with the Educational Counseling and Disability Services Office and became a panelist and presenter on Disability Awareness. 

Like many college students, Brittany changed her major several times before graduating with a Bachelor’s in History and a minor in French Language and Literature. During college she was frustrated, lost, confused at times, and felt like she had trouble fitting in. While struggling, Brittany put forth her best effort (even failing sometimes) and she was recognized as an Outstanding Graduate at her winter 2015 Commencement, and was later recognized as an Outstanding Senior Student, History B.A. this past spring. 

Welcome to service with Montana Campus Compact, Brittany!
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Submitted by Dannette Fadness, Montana Campus Compact