Two excellent interns have joined Sojourner for the summer, working with Shelter staff to provide advocacy and support for the families residing with us. Read on to learn more about their backgrounds and what they are enjoying about their internships so far.
Meet Kami:
What school/program are you in? I am currently attending UW - La Crosse to pursue a Bachelor’s Degree in Sociology with a minor in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages!
What interested you in interning at Sojourner?
I took a Victimology class this past Spring semester and through this experience, I became interested in working with and for victims of domestic violence.
What background/experience do you bring with you to the role?
Along with the Victimology class, I have also worked with children in tutoring sessions and daycare settings for a few years, so I have lots of experience!
What have you enjoyed or learned so far?
So far I have enjoyed the caring and welcoming environment of Sojourner. Everyone is so nice and patient, and it’s a very inviting atmosphere. We celebrated a child’s birthday at Sojourner one day and it was nice to see some joy and hope in a time that can be very stressful. It’s not only hard on the moms, but children, as well, so it was nice to spend time celebrating them!
How do you hope to use this experience in the future?
I want to help raise awareness about the severity of domestic violence and abuse that occurs in this community, and others as well. I also want to learn as much as I can and build relationships through Sojourner!
Meet Yesica:
What school/program are you in?
I will be going into my senior year at St Catherine University. I am majoring in Public Health with a concentration in Community Health Worker and a minor in women’s studies.
What interested you in interning at Sojourner?
I was interested in Sojourner because I really like how Sojourner works to advocate for domestic violence victims /survivors and support them through the education by providing many different services and resources.
What background/experience do you bring with you to the role?
I’ve always grown to love advocating for people and learning more about local resources. In my classes we are always discussing how CHWs have an important role in creating a relationship with their clients. We have discussed the processes of intake forms, motivational interviewing, the importance of cultural competency, etc.
What have you enjoyed or learned so far?
So far at Sojourner I have learned a lot about resources but I’ve also appreciated taking inspiration from advocates and residents and the effort that goes to all the work around domestic violence victims and safety.
How do you hope to use this experience in the future?
Once I get my degree, I hope to work in nonprofits and outreach programs. I know that I will gain valuable skills from my experience at Sojourner.
Interested in interning at Sojourner? We are currently recruiting for Fall Shelter interns! Visit https://www.sojournerproject.org/get-involved to learn more and apply.