When we first entered Baruch College, we were well informed of several support centers, library utilities, faculty members and other resources that we can use when we have problems. However, we may not think about using them even though we know their existences. It is not because we don’t trust these resources; it is because we are not used to using them. In the Fresh Seminar class, we were assigned a community service project. During one of the session, we were introduced to use Baruch database. Also we were given some useful websites to help us with our community service projects by the librarian. After that experience, I came to realize that resources were out there around us. If we can get use to using them, it will be beneficial for our future work.
In the process of preparation of our community service project, we receive most of the feedbacks from our Peer Mentor, John. He sets up agendas of the activity, gives us suggestions about things that we have to work on, questions that we have to think about. Any time we have questions about the community service project, we will first e-mail him to get help. It is always nice that you have someone to ask from when you need help. I think everyone in our session appreciates the supports and guides from our peer mentor.
Having participated in the community service, I start to think about what the community gives us, and what we can do to give back. Fortunately, I find that our school has a club call VITA that trains students to be tax filers. At the time of taxi filing, students can help file tax for people in the community for free. Now I am already a participant in that club. In order to be eligible to be a member, I will have to attend several strict trainings and pass the exams. I am willing to take this opportunity to be knowledgeable in person and helpful to the community.