Story #19: Jarrell Lee’s Personal Reflections and Growth During CYEP

Today, Jarell Lee ’10 is the principal of KIPP Academy Primary in Chicago. He founded the school in 2019 with 88 kindergarteners. Since then, the school has expanded to serve 400 students. As a principal, Jarell also raps! Check out his principal rap music video here: 

But sixteen years ago, Jarell was a student at Harvard, directing the Summer Urban Program (SUP), Cambridge Youth Enrichment Program (CYEP). Below is a reflection that Jarell wrote in September of 2008. Just as he signs off his emails today with a quote, he began his reflection with one too. 

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“Try not to become a man of success but rather try to become a man of value.” - Albert Einstein

In February, I was confused. I did not know what I wanted to do. In fact, I did, but had no idea which route to take. My dream is to go back home to my hometown of Cleveland, OH. I had that opportunity, but the Cleveland Mayor’s Office told me I would get a better experience SUP Directing. In March, I signed on as the final CYEP Director, and made a promise to myself: I dedicated this summer to me. I had worked some much to help other people, and although I enjoyed it, I believed it was time for some serious personal reflection time. 

This summer was full of joys, pains, smiles, trials and tribulations. I am proud to say I took away a bunch of valuable lessons. I learned to trust people. It is normally hard for me to trust people, but putting my trust in my Co-Directors and staff showed me that if I put my faith in others they will pull through when I need them to. Also, the deeper I got into PBHA, the more students and faculty I bonded with and new I could count on no matter what. 

I also learned how to admit fault and receive feedback. I did not know all the answers. I tried the best I could and I learned that mistakes are acceptable, as long as I take steps to acknowledge and correct them. Because I had the responsibility of looking over 150 children and managing a 30+ person staff, I quickly grew up. I gained first-hand managerial experience with real consequences. If I did not order food, my campers would not eat. If I was not punctual, my staff would always be late. My standards for personal responsibility and accountability were reestablished, in bold print.

Mostly importantly, I gained more confidence in myself and my abilities. I learned that no matter what, I can pull through the situation regardless of how tough it is. I learned that my firmness is a sign of strength if I compromise when needed. I learned that I CAN change a life. More than one. As Director, I got to tangibly see how my interactions with the campers and staff changed their demeanor, countenance, and outlook on life. I realized the importance of being an invisible force. I was making things happen, whether or not they knew I was the author was unimportant. Most of my life, I have done things as the noticeable head. It was a contrast to do more behind the scenes planning, but nevertheless, an amazing experience.

This summer has empowered me in a way I have never felt before. I feel like I can do anything and everything. I feel as if nothing is impossible, and I aim patiently waiting for the next phase of my life to begin. I learned a lot about myself as an individual and in relation to others this summer. I grew from a college boy to a young man. I feel uplifted and ready for my next level. It was hard for me to choose service work because it does not pay much. However, I am willing to pay that cost because the intangible reaps are invaluable. I would choose success over value any day.