Reflection of week: Internship at Syrian Community Network

Something new that I learned throughout this PIE is the fact that the U.S. is a hard country to acclimate to, especially throughout the education system. I've also learned that while working in case management that these families would find it really hard to get through taxes, medical care, and job searching. I am grateful to have the opportunity in being in this environment like the one at Syrian Community Network because I am learning more and more about the criteria that goes into running an organization like this one. An organization that is constantly changing due to the different laws that are put into action in this country. I made sure throughout this week to start my communication building skills by asking more questions, meeting new faces, and working with them. I have made sure to put my input into the meetings that I attend because of the fact that I have volunteered so I know the students one to one. I am excited for the week that comes ahead.

Syrian Community Network is an organization that focuses on supporting the needs of refugees living across the Chicagoland. For the past two weeks, I have been working with directors from the Education Department that have allowed me to observe the adult and youth programs that SCN has to offer. I have also been able to get a deeper look into case management which helps clients anywhere from direct service to immigration services. Being able to be a part of staff meeting and even tuning into meetings that have been held with future donors has given me the opportunity to realize and take in why I want to go into the field of diplomacy and possibly manage my own organization one day. Being able to partake in these meetings and observing visits with clients has given me a different look into organization and community building.