Breana Guce + Ashley Tennant

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

Our community partner was the International Student and Visitor Services (ISVS) English Conversation Club. The objective of this role extended beyond completing the CSL requirement for PSYCH 344: Intercultural Communications, as it focused on developing our leadership, communication, and facilitation skills. We actively contributed to the planning and delivery of biweekly program sessions and supported fellow CSL volunteers in their sessions. Our responsibilities also included creating promotional content for the ualbertavp Instagram page, leading activities, and facilitating group discussions. An important part of our role was fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment by engaging with students, learning their names, and checking in on their well-being. Since many participants were new to Canada, it was especially important to be approachable and create a space where they felt comfortable practicing English and connecting with others.

What was the biggest takeaway from your CSL project?

My biggest takeaway from this CSL project was gaining a deeper sense of empathy and awareness. As a fourth-year student, it can be easy to forget what it feels like to be an “outsider,” especially after being in university for several years. This experience reminded me of the importance of understanding and supporting individuals who are new to Edmonton and adjusting to a different culture. It reinforced how important it is to be not only welcoming, but also respectful and culturally aware when communicating with others.

Another major takeaway was the sense of community within the English Conversation Club. The environment was incredibly positive and supportive, which made the experience both enjoyable and meaningful. I found myself genuinely looking forward to each Friday, as it gave me the opportunity to connect with students and be part of their learning experience. The collaboration with fellow volunteers made the sessions more engaging and fun, while the staff’s support and flexibility allowed us the creative freedom to design interactive and meaningful activities. Overall, this experience showed me the value of connection, teamwork, and creating inclusive spaces for others to learn and grow.

How can you apply any newly gained knowledge and skills to your future endeavors?

The leadership, communication, and collaboration skills I developed through the English Conversation Club grew significantly over the course of the experience. Leading sessions and presenting to larger groups helped build my confidence in public speaking and made me more comfortable engaging with different audiences. Working closely with my partner strengthened my ability to communicate effectively, collaborate, and stay open-minded when planning activities. Being part of such an amazing group of people was also a key aspect of the experience, as working together in a supportive team environment made the process both enjoyable and meaningful. I also gained experience in content creation, including planning, timing, and designing engaging posts for social media. Learning how to balance creativity with clear and effective communication was an especially valuable part of this experience.

Why should students consider being involved with CSL?

Students should consider getting involved with CSL because it offers meaningful experiences that go beyond the classroom. At first, I was nervous about balancing school, work, and other commitments alongside a placement, but it ended up being incredibly rewarding. It provided me with valuable experiences and connections that I would not have gained otherwise. When you are involved in something you genuinely enjoy, it no longer feels like just a volunteer requirement, but rather an opportunity for personal growth, skill development, and community connection. CSL allows you to become part of a supportive community while gaining hands-on experience that is both engaging and impactful.