Reflection Essay

Walking in the first day of class to learn that there was a service learning component,

startled and excited me. It excited me because, in all honesty, I would finally have something of

importance to put on my resume. It startled me because, I didn’t know what lay to come.

Professor Carter’s opening class statements intimidated and prompted me to consider dropping.

Oh how my inclinations were wrong. Was I challenged? Of course. Did I fail? Sometimes. Was I

responsible for a real client? Indeed. But what I got out of all the late nights, frights, and endless

assignments was knowledge. Knowledge in AP style, knowledge on how to write broadcast,

speeches, press releases, you name it. Knowledge in how to trust my abilities and push beyond

boundaries. I learned how to apply my communications skills to the real world, and that is

invaluable.

Yes internships allow you to dip your toes in law, or education, or journalism, but seldom

are you given the opportunity of a service learning class. A class where you can explore the

world of communications, apply your skills, but still have room for error. A class where

Professor Carter is readily available for any questions you may have along your journey, or a

simple pat on the back. The most valuable part of my service learning experience has been

composing fact sheets, press releases, speeches, etc. for my client. I was able to see how useful

they were to my client as well as the true purpose they served. Compiling a communications

audit throughout this course has also allowed me to see the process of creating one as well as a

better understanding of how all the bits and pieces come together.
 Some of the challenges we faced with our client were gaining access to their social media

platforms as well as communicating our purpose, as a communications team and not as

volunteers. We were never able to gain access to their facebook, but were successful in creating

an instagram account and showing the Store Manager how to navigate the platform. Although we

were able to provide sample posts and give suggestions, not having access to the social media

accounts hindered our groups progress. I would suggest that the Academic Service Learning

center communicate better to the non-profits about the students’ purpose as well as make sure

that tasks required will be able to be completed, for example, will students have access to social

media or be able to communicate on behalf of the client? Or is there a hierarchical order in the

organization that will prohibit that access or hinder a groups progression. Despite minor set

backs the overall experience of working with a client has provided me with numerous skills as

well as confidence going forward in my future endeavours.