Candice Andfield has come full circle returning to the Yawkey Club of Roxbury this year as a Social Work Intern. She was a Club member years ago and is excited to be in her new role giving back to the community.
Hello Candice. Thank you so much for talking with me. I want to learn more about your trip to Japan in 2010, but first tell me what you have been doing at Boys & Girls Clubs of Boston.
I am a second year Masters of Social Work student at Boston University and I am in my foundation placement at the Yawkey Club of Roxbury. Currently, I run two social emotional learning groups called Read Set Action and Photo Justice. I also facilitate Club 6-7 which happens on Friday evenings and allows our youngest members to participate in fun activities past 6pm at the Club.
Do you plan to have a career working with youth?
When I was in high school, I was involved GRLZradio doing community outreach. That inspired me to be a Social Worker. I hope I can inspire youth. Right now, I would like to do either violence prevention or work with children under 12-years-old.
I understand that you were a former Club member but you also have another connection to the Yawkey Club, right?
Yes, Dave is my grandfather!
For those who do not know, Dave has been at the Club for more than 20 years! He is a wonderful guy!
So tell me about your involvement with Experiential Travel Programs.
Well, I attended the Club when I was younger but stopped coming when I was a teen. When I heard about the Japan trip, I came back. I was nervous at first because I did not know anyone when I joined the program, but I became good friends with many of the teens.
Are you still in touch with anyone from your trip?
I am still good friends with Briana who I met through this opportunity. We have actually been trying to plan a trip back to Japan. We would like to spend more time in Tokyo and enjoy some of the nightlife there. I would also love to visit Hiroshima again as well as see the Nara deer.
When you think back on your time in Japan, what comes to your mind?
I think about Japan now. I kept everything from that trip in a box at home. I still have it. As far as memories though, it was my first time in Asia. The culture is so different and that was very eye opening. I ate new things like eel and cow tongue. Being African American in Asia, I remember the reaction Japanese people had toward us. There was a lot of staring. They were curious, friendly and wanted to interact.
Did one place have a specific impact on you?
Hiroshima was the most powerful because of the history. Being there was a ‘WOW’ moment. I also enjoyed the architecture there and the spiritual side of Japan. Meditation was beautiful.
Do you have any advice for current teens considering joining an Experiential Travel Program at their Club?
Definitely do it! Why not? Go see what is out there and learn about yourself. Go try new things and just go for it!
