SUST 202 - CCGHRG

Who was your community partner, and can you describe the project objectives?

Our community partner was the Climate Change and Global Health Research Group. The objectives of our projects were to expand knowledge about how climate change and public health intersect and promote growth and advancements in the climate health movement by brainstorming networking events that promote climate conversations. We worked on going to an elementary school and presented topics about climate change and global health, with a few activities included. We also made a report/plan for an event known as the Community Climate Conversations, which is a networking event. 

What was the biggest takeaway from your CSL placement?

Maya: I was able to reconnect with my love for teaching and was able to have the flexibility to be creative in my work done with the group.

Taylor: My biggest takeaway was how much you can always learn about something even if you think you are quite educated. I am grateful to have met so many people with different backgrounds to share their expertise.

How can you apply any newly gained knowledge/skills to your future endeavors (courses/employment/volunteering)?

Maya: I can say that participating in the research organization has taught me many soft skills that will be applicable in the future. On a professional level, it has taught me the importance of proper organization and communication with others, whether that be through email or in meetings. This has been one of my first experiences emerging into such a professional setting and has given me insights into maintaining corporate professionalism and proper communication On top of learning professional skills, this has transferred over to my academic life as well: As everyone knows, sometimes it may be a little nerve-racking to be presenting in front of an audience, but when you're teaching in front of a bunch of 5th graders it's definitely the least scary crowd you will be presenting to, mainly because the only thing they’re thinking of is how old you are. Lastly, my personal life has also been impacted. Previously, I was a taekwondo instructor, but unfortunately, due to COVID-19, I had to end coaching. But in return, that has given me different opportunities to focus on, like this placement, I was able to reconnect with my passion for teaching

Taylor: I will definitely apply my new creative skills to projects in future courses and my career. I also learned so much about effective time management that I will absolutely apply to coursework, studying, and, generally, everything in my life.