STUDENT EXCERPTS FROM SERVICE LEARNINGJOURNALS…
|
The work opportunities with community-based nonprofitorganizations throughout Somerset and Hunterdon counties are asvaried as the students who choose to make the commitment toserve.
|
- "I did not know what I was getting into when I decided toinvolve myself in the Service Learning Program at Raritan ValleyCommunity College. I planned on getting a few volunteer hours'under my belt' in order to complete the requirementsof the program. In addition to completing the requirements, Ithought I might gain some insight into a future college major andeventually a career. Well, I did more than just gain some insight;I found a future. As a result of completing the program andlearning the details of a new occupation, I have never felt sosecure of my current and future plans."
|
| Service Learner -Environmental Science Course |
| "In the beginning, I felt greatapprehension. I wasn't sure if I was qualified enough to bean assistant to the Spanish bi-lingual teacher. I asked myselfquestions like, 'Will the children accept me?','Am I going to be helpful to the teacher, Mrs.Dominquez?', 'Will I know enough Spanish tocommunicate?'…In the middle of the semester, I startedto connect with the children. I could tell Luis and Estaban startedto trust me because they no longer sought Mrs. Dominquez'shelp (attention) while I was there. Also, the other children in theclassroom became confident at the same time. In the final weekswhen I entered the room, several students would rush to my side andask for assistance. This was quite gratifying as I made thetransition from the outsider to the accepted helper…
It was a great learning experience. Through my experience, I amgoing to look into being an ESL teacher. Thank you for thisopportunity."
|
| Service Learner - SpanishII Course |
| "The Service Learning Program not onlytouched my life personally, it touched my professional careergoals. During two semesters at Raritan Valley Community College, Iwas encouraged to participate in this novel and innovative programcalled Service Learning. The Program's aims and goalsincluded serving the community in conjunction to the academiccourse work. This resourceful combination allows the students tomaximize their classroom understanding in a practical realm.Students gain experience and serviceable skills while participatingin volunteer work. The volunteer work helps others while enrichingthe individual's character…
Community service programs like Service Learning not onlyenlightened my values and perceptions, it changed my career choice.Since leaving Rartian Valley Community College, I enrolled in theSocial Work Program at Rutgers University.
I firmly believe that the Service Learning Program encouraged agreater awareness about the struggle of others. It is anoutstanding program that deserves recognition."
|
| Service Learner - EnglishI and II Courses |
|
For more information on theaward-winning Service Learning program,
call or e-mail Lori Moog,(908) 526-1200 ext. 8284. |
|
