Six Concept Post Reflection

There are six civic engagement concepts that we have applied to our work as interpreters throughout this program. They are Community Engaged Learning, Community Organizing and Activism, Direct Service, Philanthropy, Policy & Governance, Social Entrepreneurship and Corporate Social Responsibility. Of the six concepts, the one I found most challenging was Direct Service because it required more effort and time to execute than the others. Jeralie (my classmate) and I worked to coordinate with the PIP (Parent Infant Program) director to create a plan for purchasing a snack and craft for the PIP Activity at the Living Planet Aquarium. Once we figured how much it would cost, we filled out paperwork to submit to SLCC for a reimbursement.  We volunteered our time the day of the event to assist Deaf and HOH (Hard of Hearing) children/families in making a crafted turtle or shark and eating snacks.

The civic engagement that I related to the most was the Community Engaged Learning Concept. During my time at SLCC in the Interpreter Training Program I completed a minimum of 32 hours per semester serving in the community. I loved this part of the ITP program because I was able to apply what I learned in the classroom to a real-life setting. I’ve had the opportunity to make new friends, share common goals and interest, and show support in a meaningful way.

I will take this concept of Community Engaged Learning beyond my time at SLCC because of my deep-rooted commitment to the Deaf community. Volunteering and becoming engaged in the community have helped me develop my ASL skills and find lasting relationships in the community that will continue far beyond my time at SLCC. This community engagement has deepened my understanding of Deaf people and their community.

I can apply this civically engaged service in my future work as an interpreter by striving to be involved in the Deaf community throughout my life and remember my service hours as a valuable opportunity to learn, build relationships, and engage in the community in a meaningful way.