Blog Entry #7

     As my project is coming to a close, I reflect on the different things I've learned from both my paper and my hands-on project. Considering that my paper was on policy, the DREAM Act, and my project was volunteering at a non-profit educaiton center, I received a wide range of information on immigrant education. My hands-on project taught me more about applying the education rather than enacting laws to allow undocumented immigrants post-secondary education.
     My time at the BLC was fantastic, and the drive is going pretty well! Originally, I planned on learning more about how to run a non-profit, but my experience focused more on getting things done and cleaned and organized, etc. I also planned on having the time to create manuals for the center during my 10 hours there, but I told Maggie that since we ran out of time I will just do it on my own time. Speaking of Maggie, our relationship is very easy-going and encouraging. Her personality works very well with mine, and in whichever project I was working on, we would both have suggestions and work together to make the best decision. She was awesome.
    This project has been a little challenging, personally. I really, really wanted to work with the students. However, there were roadblocks, but the BLC had things for me to do; they needed help in some areas and I was there to be there for them. I quickly accepted that I couldn't be with students, and now I hope that I helped the center enough so that it truly impacts the students while I'm not there! I think the drive will really help that.
    The final goal for the last week of completing my senior project is to organize and log all of the donated items so far. Also, I plan on finishing up the manuals for internet functions and writing an article about my experience for Maggie and the BLC newsletter. Overall, this project allowed me to help out in an area of this world that I am very concerned and passionate about. I plan on studying Spanish in college and possibly becoming a professor. During my studies and professorship, I would love to work with immigrant children and possibly start a non-profit for them.