Name: Emma

Year: Senior

Major(s): Psychology, Comparative Literature

CFS Program: Field Studies in Civic Engagement

My experience with CFS has been extremely positive. When I initially applied to CFS, I wasn’t sure what field I wanted to explore, and decided on Field Studies in Civic Engagement so that I could learn more about careers in the non-profit and public service. After interviewing at Heartland Alliance Refugee and Immigrant Community Services (RICS), I knew that the Vocational English Language Training Internship would be a unique and highly rewarding experience. RICS annually resettles hundreds of refugees into the Chicago area, providing them with housing, English training, job training, and orientation to American culture.

As an intern, I assist with the English teachers and tutor small groups of students from the Level 1 (literacy and pre-literacy) class. Although I had prior tutoring experience, I had never worked with ESL students. Though challenging, I’ve learned to tackle small lessons, making sure each student is able to grasp the skills introduced. Part of the internship training involved getting certified through Literacy Works, a 2-day ESL tutor training course. The course prepared me for the responsibilities at Heartland, especially when it comes to teaching students from diverse backgrounds. Many of the students I work with had no prior exposure to English before coming to the United States and one-on-one and small group instruction is required. In addition to these literacy workshops, I have the opportunity to substitute teach for full classrooms, where I’m trusted with lesson plans and authority. The teaching experience has reinforced my desire to teach after college and I am now applying for fellowships to teach English abroad after graduation.

Through my CFS class and internship, I have learned a great deal about civic engagement and social services. Each weeks’ readings are thought-provoking and discussion in class has greatly expanded my perception of what constitutes civic engagement. We also have focused on Chicago as a case study in politics, service, and community, which has given me a much greater sense of connection to Chicago and a love for the city! I recommend CFS to any students who are considering it and am inspired by the amount of work put into to making the most out of each student’s unique internship experience.