This is my first year as an Extern through the STEM Action Center and I am loving the experience. I was placed with The International Rescue Committee (IRC) in their Cash Assistance Program. “The International Rescue Committee (IRC) helps people affected by humanitarian crises to survive, recover and rebuild their lives. We deliver lasting impact by providing health care, helping children learn, and empowering individuals and communities to become self-reliant, always with a focus on the unique needs of women and girls. Founded in 1933 at the call of Albert Einstein, we now work in over 40 countries as well as communities throughout Europe and the Americas.” In Boise, The IRC works with refugees who are beginning to make Boise their home to help them become self-sufficient.

My job was initially going to be working in support of the Cash Assistance Program and their efforts to enroll new-to-country families. However, a drop in arrivals led to me being used in many different capacities across the organization. I have loved getting to learn about all aspects of the process of acclimating families to a new country. The IRC is there to support families (AKA clients) from the initial airport pick up, through temporary housing placements, and cultural and financial education. The IRC also helps clients find jobs and get into permanent housing so they can work toward financial self-sufficiency. I have helped interview clients about their previous job experiences and preferences, helped clients make budgets and created resumes for clients. I have also helped document and organize client information and tried to help ease the workload of my wonderful co-workers.

Through this experience, I have been reminded of the importance of understanding people’s stories and keeping the person first. That can only be accomplished when people are curious and open to new experiences. This reminder will help me focus on what is important when I return to the classroom in August.