Shaniqua Mitchell Loyola Experience Culminating Portfolio

Home > Engagement > Reflection

Reflection

IMG_3541.JPG

This picture is an example of the trusting relationship that I built with the students that I worked with at Family Matters. I had more than one opportunity to use my Engaged Learning experiences to reflect on my personal and professional developments. These are a few captured moments where I realized the impact that my service had on the students and how I inspired them to pursue their dreams no matter what obstacles come their way. This is one of my most memorable moments that I will carry with me through my future career, when building relationships with others. 

I connected my in-class and out-of-class Engaged Learning experiences by applying class material in different instances and using my experiences to serve as examples for application opportunities. I was able to learn theories and concepts, understand diversity and privilege, and practice methods of empathic/active listening. My Engaged Learning experiences helped me connect to LUC mission by using learned material for growth and challenging myself to stand up for injustices and the effects on communities. I used my faith to give me strength and support to push through difficult situations and triggering topics/conversations. My experiences allowed me to build a stronger community on campus which challenged me to be aware of other perspectives and my own weaknesses. My experience in my Engaged Learning courses affected my intellectual and professional development by giving me an opportunity to use my in class concepts in a practical setting. Specifically, my experience working with youth at Family Matters, a non-profit organization, taught me the importance of active listening and the role of a professional when working with youth. While the academic study of both human services and psychology helped give me an idea of the types of situations that the concepts may be applicable to, the actual experience engaged me with the material in a completely different fashion. It helped me develop intellectually because it broadened my mind to the scope that different human service theories could be applied practically. It helped my personal and professional development because it taught me the importance of establishing boundaries between those who I am working with, even when I deeply wish to establish a more personal relationship, and to think of the ethical decisions in my role that set certain standards to achieve a more professional relationship. I learned that there is a time to engage personally with students to build trusting relationships but also to handle conversations and exemplify leadership qualities.  

STARS LEAD 2014

STARS LEAD 2014

This was the start of my engagement with Family Matters. I began my work with this nonprofit organization through SDMA and this video captures our most memorable moments.

Author: Shaniqua Mitchell
Last modified: 4/2/2017 6:17 PM (EDT)