Various Internship Experiences
Posted April 28th, 2008 by Mary MartinAll my internships have been connected to Oregon State University in the English Language Institute (ELI), University Housing and Dining Services (UHDS), Chi Alpha Campus Ministry (Christian organization that’s connected with OSU), and Academic Success Center’s ALS 116 class.
For now, I’ll focus on ALS 116 which I’m an instructor for. This class is a discussion based course in which students learn how to be successful in school. Topics include time management, their health, campus resources, and staying organized.
Having a background in teaching, I’ve taught Elementary – High School, I’m learning about a whole new field within the college level! When I looked at what competency I still needed some support in, I realized that my I had not done direct teaching within the past two years of CSSA. I put myself up for the challenge because I knew that it would diversify my knowledge.
Currently, we are in Week 5 and I’ve coached seven classes (we don’t start ALS 116 till the 2nd week of school). At first I was intimidated but when I started seeing myself as a facilitator and coach, I realized I did not have to be the expert with all the answers. I am a resource for the students.
I’m really enjoying ALS 116 because it had gotten me in direct contact with students. Students have a lot of insight and I am learning at the same time. To give you a bit of background, academic work has always been difficult for me, so to make the decision to go to grad school took me 6 years after receiving my undergrad degree. For the past 2 yrs I’ve still struggled with the graduate academic work because I’m a hands-on action person. Now, everything is coming full circle. I’m now able to use what I’ve learned in CSSA, like theory and helping skills, in ALS 116.
-Shelley
