Service Learning

This semester our class was asked to complete five hours of service learning working with adults that struggle with disabilities. At the start of the semester, a boy from one of my classes announced how the school has an autistic mentoring program and that all were invited to join. This program allows student peers to work with students struggling with autism here on the campus of BYU-Idaho. The mentors help provide assistance with daily living, school, social/emotional difficulties, and anything else the student might be struggling with. To join the program, you agree to a two semester commitment, and agree to work with your mentee at least an hour a week.  I decided that this was something that I would love to be a part of. I attended training meetings every other week throughout the semester. After the first couple of meetings, I was set up with a partner and a mentee. My mentee is a first semester student. It was his first time being away from home, and he was nervous and scared to be on a new journey in life. Having a little bit of experience with those that are dealing with autism, I knew that change is one of the hardest challenges to encounter. My partner and I often helped him with social issues, as school seemed to be a strength for him. We still checked each week to make sure he was completing his assignments and that his grades were acceptable. His challenges dealt a lot with roommates, meeting new friends, and finding a place to belong. As we worked with him each week, I felt myself growing a deep care for him and his well-being. He always seemed so excited to see us each week. As time passed on, he seemed to become comfortable with us and less afraid to express his concerns in his life. We often talked openly about how to talk to his roommates, how to talk in a large group (knowing when it was his turn to speak), and how to make new friends. He often felt sorrow for not having any friends here, and was grateful to have us here to help him. After working with him for several weeks, I found a valuable resource that I used to help direct him in social settings. I also started implementing role playing to help him know how to respond in certain situations. The website was very helpful. I recommend it for anyone that struggles with social issues: http://www.autism.org.uk/socialskills  Overall I have felt that this experience has helped me to grow. It has helped me to gain more compassion and love for those that are dealing with a special need. I am grateful for this experience. I am looking forward for the opportunity to continue working with this program next semester. I am grateful for my mentee and all that he has taught me. I know I have made a new friend in the process also.