Recent Dickinson College graduate and Jenkintown resident Dori Even-Shoshan is a part of a younger generation dedicated to making a difference.  For the past two years, he has served in AmeriCorps, a federal program that offers opportunities for adults of all ages and backgrounds to serve through a network of partnerships with local and national nonprofit groups.

In his current role as an assistant for an AmeriCorps program in a West Oak Lane elementary school, Even-Shoshan organizes special projects, works with the children in the after school program and designs curriculum. Reflecting his innovative style, he created an external program that exposes students to the rich history and the deep well of resources in Philadelphia. Through this valuable initiative, Even-Shoshan coordinates student trips to historic sites, which include the National Constitution Center, National Liberty Museum and The Red Cross.

“I am especially proud of this program because it enhances the experience of the students and teaches them things that they might not have been aware of through their regular classroom experience,” Even-Shoshan said. “It’s rewarding because I am making an impact and I have definitely seen the students improve over time.” 

Prior to undertaking his current position, Even-Shoshan worked in City Year’s Education Works, another AmeriCorps program that gave him the opportunity to serve in a Philadelphia public middle school. In this vital community setting, he provided tutoring, mentoring and assisted in organizing programs within the school and in the surrounding community.  His creative energy led to conceptualizing, planning and executing a high school fair that was a smashing success. Even-Shoshan orchestrated a showcase of 10 public high schools to display their diverse academic offerings to the middle school students. This first-time event provided an expandable view to help the middle school students decide which high school would be their best fit.

Even-Shoshan’s experience in the Philadelphia public schools increased his personal awareness of the challenging problems facing urban education systems. He observed firsthand the effects of teacher burnout and students not getting enough attention.  

“More supports are needed in order for the children to succeed,” said Evan Shoshan. “They need more social workers, health care workers and mentors besides teachers to encourage them to achieve.”

Even-Shoshan knew early on that he would devote his career to public service. At Jenkintown High School, he developed a keen interest in European history and jumped at the chance to volunteer for the World Affairs Council in Philadelphia.  While at Dickinson College, he continued his involvement with the council as a summer intern. In this vigorous capacity, Even-Shoshan supported the development of educational programs like the Model UN and applied his writing skills drawing up background guides.

Armed with energy and an evolving impressive background, he secured another competitive summer internship with Democracy Rising Pennsylvania, an organization that encourages responsible government in Pennsylvania. Compelled by this experience, Even-Shoshan furthered his writing talents producing an editorial published in the “Harrisburg Patriot News” about the corruption that often exists in the public financing of elections and highlighted its impact on court decisions.

Even-Shoshan’s rich experience in community service has helped him map out his career direction in bold relief with a plan for the future. This coming fall, Even-Shoshan will begin his studies toward a masters degree in social work (MSW) at University of Pennsylvania’s School of Social Policy and Practice.

 “I want to continue to help people from disadvantage communities and backgrounds reach their potential,” said Even-Shoshan.  “I am particularly concerned about the current economic inequality that is affecting America’s ability to remain a vibrant democracy.”  

Even-Shoshan believes that the biggest issue of his generation is the availability of meaningful work and the overriding issue of job creation. “There’s a sense that America is going downhill and that we may not have the same opportunities as our parents and grandparents,” Even-Shoshan said.

Even-Shoshan‘s advice for recent graduates who are struggling to figure out their career plans: “Don’t be afraid to try different things. If you are interested in something, get some experience before you decide. If it’s not right for you, there’s still time to make up your mind.”