Preview
Creation Date
2021
Description
Digital photograph of Madeline Birkner working from home.
Panel Text
Q: How did life lead you here?
Madeline: I graduated during a tough time economically in 2010 and the recession had started in 2008, there was little to no jobs throughout these years. I did not want to go to grad school because I did not have a specific direction … I cared a lot about too many different things.
At some point, I did a lot of maternity positions & nannying among other jobs – I filled for those that could not. Still trying to find jobs – I joined my alma mater as an interviewer, $17 an hour and this allowed for other bigger positions to open up. It all led me to - Admissions – were I read student applications for schools and this truly evolved my passion for justice and fairness. At some point, I felt that some private schools felt like they were too much for others.
I've seen the extremes of America through many lived experiences - but really enjoyed a job I had in bringing minorities to visit schools – I was able to fly them out, do programs, provide meals, showed them how to write essays. I got to select these kids and give them opportunities that many do not receive in certain areas because of a lot of economic issues. I wanted the stability of a paycheck that was predictable. Too much stress - I am someone who likes to plan more.
Q: Have you ever thought about quitting? And what led you into not doing so or doing so?
Madeline: Yes - many, many times. Not ever because of the work itself - it’s more so the way that the work has been divided. Division of labor isn’t fair. If you go into a job, do not expect thank yous, that’s not what is fulfilling, at least not to me - although it’s good when it happens it shouldn’t be what you do the work for. Not everyone will thank you! You have to do the work because what you do is worthwhile – to you, for the people, for the purpose.
My office is a safe place for children, no judgement, they are in the driver’s seat of their life. I guide them and allow for them to make the decisions because if they do not make these decisions at some point, someone will.
Jailene: I can testify to this – Madeline was my favorite person and her office was the safe haven at my high school. For many of us, this is REAL life, our environments can make or break us – Madeline is one of those people that always allowed for her students to feel safe, heard, understood and appreciated for their life existence. She always was the one to share opportunities with me, help me write my essays, visit colleges, complete college applications, get me into college, share advice and memorable moments with me – she always allowed me to decide for myself at the end of the day. This evolved that independence and goal digger aspect in me. If someone could believe in me that much, then why shouldn’t I?
Q: What are some values you have always kept up and will potentially teach your children?
Madeline: I think of my work as being my value. My grandmother was not educated - immigrant family - not a priority for many different aspects – she had stopped school early and worked at a factory (1930s perspective).
Jailene: Life at home and life at school were always two different things. Many people like myself do not have both of our parents in our lives, nor stable homes. Having Madeline has been a part of my life and journey to college, I was able to have someone who has my back, who I trust, who I know cares for me and my success and I deeply admire her for it all. Her work is certainly of high value and she shows this every single day.
Madeline: Knowing that no one is better than anyone else and you’re not worse than anybody else. No need to doubt yourself, everyone is the same in terms of human life. Don’t treat people based on a class. Everyone should be treated with justice! I don’t like unfairness. Integrity, kindness and honesty are important to me and hard-work.
Jailene: Madeline is an outstanding amazing loving soul – Madeline is a mom (in all its definitions).
Rights
Copyright of the underlying work is held by the artist. The digital image presented here is for educational purposes only and is not for commercial use.
Keywords
student art, 2021, documentary photography, Ursinus College, staff, portrait, photograph
