Elizabeth Anjorin-Ohu + Rylee Saunders

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

International Student and Visitor Services (ISVS) - English Conversation Club

What was the biggest takeaway from your CSL project?

The biggest takeaway from this CSL project was understanding how accessible support systems are in shaping students’ success and overall wellbeing in university life. Through working with ISVS and facilitating the ECC, we saw firsthand that challenges like isolation, unfamiliar systems, and cultural adjustment are not individual issues, but structural ones that require intentional support. Creating spaces for connection, information-sharing, and community can significantly reduce these barriers. This experience shifted my perspective from seeing support services as “extra” to recognizing them as essential to equity within institutions.

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

This experience strengthened my ability to communicate across diverse groups, lead discussions, and create inclusive environments—skills that are valuable in any future academic or professional setting. I also developed a deeper understanding of how to design programs and initiatives that are accessible and engaging. Moving forward, I can apply this by prioritizing inclusivity, being more aware of systemic barriers, and actively working to create spaces where people feel supported and heard, whether in leadership roles, community work, or future endeavors.

Why should students consider being involved with CSL?

Students should consider being involved with CSL because it bridges the gap between theory and real-world impact. It allows you to take concepts learned in class (like equity, social determinants, and inclusion) and see how they operate in practice. More importantly, CSL pushes you to engage with communities in meaningful ways, building empathy, adaptability, and practical skills that can’t be learned in a classroom alone. It’s an opportunity to not only contribute to important work, but also to better understand your role within larger social systems. At its core, CSL shows you that even small contributions can make a big difference in society!