One of my primary goals at the outset was to build strong relationships with community members and fellow city employees. Working with the block captains committee, dedicated residents who are outlining what the program will look like, has been a particularly enlightening experience. I have learned the importance of trust and active listening in these relationships, as effective community engagement is grounded in understanding and responding to residents' needs. One of the greatest accomplishments of my internship has been contributing to the development of a resource guide for block captains, which consolidates key contacts, city services, and best practices for effective neighborhood leadership. Seeing this project come to fruition has been incredibly rewarding, as it provides a sustainable tool for ongoing community empowerment. However, this was not without its challenges. Gathering accurate and up-to-date information requires navigating bureaucratic processes, which sometimes slowed progress. Additionally, balancing my responsibilities as an intern with my academic coursework is difficult at times, requiring strong time-management skills.
Engaging in ethical campus-community collaboration has also prompted me to reflect on the power dynamics between institutions and local communities. I have become more aware of the importance of avoiding extractive relationships, where the community's needs might be secondary to the learning goals of students or researchers. This experience has reinforced my commitment to ensuring that my work aligns with the priorities of the Chester residents themselves. On a personal level, this internship has helped me refine key skills such as communication, project management, and adaptability. I have grown more confident in my ability to navigate complex community issues and work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders.