Ashley Taylor

What skills did you develop or improve through this service experience?
Through this service experience, I developed and strengthened several important skills, especially active listening and critical thinking. Because the training was information-heavy and focused on legal processes, I had to pay close attention to understand complex topics like different types of immigration hearings, legal terminology, and the overall structure of the court system. I also improved my note-taking skills by organizing key concepts, statistics, and definitions in a clear way so I could reflect on them later. In addition, I began developing cultural and linguistic awareness, particularly in understanding the importance of interpretation for Spanish speakers and indigenous language communities. This experience also helped me build confidence in engaging with legal topics in Spanish, which is directly related to my academic goals. Finally, I gained a better sense of how to engage professionally in community-based learning environments, which will be valuable for future internships or careers.

What did you learn about the community or environment you served?
I learned that the immigrant community in Memphis faces many structural and legal challenges, especially when navigating the immigration court system. One of the most significant things I learned is how many individuals go through court proceedings without legal representation, which puts them at a major disadvantage. I also learned that language barriers are a serious issue, particularly for people who speak indigenous languages, not just Spanish. Even though interpretation is offered, there are still many problems with accuracy and access. Additionally, I learned that there are many misconceptions about immigrants, such as beliefs about crime or job competition, that are not supported by data. This showed me that the community not only faces legal challenges but also social stigma. At the same time, I saw that there are organizations, like AIR, working hard to support and advocate for this community, which highlights both the need and the resilience within this environment.

What new connections or relationships did you form during your service?
During this experience, I was able to connect with professionals working in the field of immigration law, as well as others who are interested in advocacy and community support. Although the interaction was not deeply personal, being in the same space allowed me to learn directly from immigration lawyers and advocates, which felt valuable for my future career interests. I also became more aware of AIR as an organization and the opportunities they offer, such as court watching in immigration court. This is a connection that I can build on in the future by getting more involved with their programs. Additionally, I was surrounded by other students and community members who share similar interests in social justice and immigrant rights, which helped create a sense of shared purpose. These connections may not be long-term yet, but they opened the door for future networking and involvement.

How did your service contribute to the mission or goals of the organization?
My participation contributed to the mission of AIR by supporting their goal of educating and involving the community in immigration advocacy. Even though my role was primarily as a participant, attending the training helps strengthen community awareness, which is a key part of their work. By becoming informed about immigration rights and the court system, I am better prepared to share accurate information with others and potentially support individuals who may need resources. Additionally, my interest in court watching aligns with their goal of increasing transparency and accountability in immigration courts. If I continue to participate in court watching, I can contribute more directly by helping document and observe court proceedings. Overall, my involvement supports their broader mission of empowering communities and advocating for fair treatment within the immigration system.

Did your service align with your personal values and beliefs? If not, how did you handle any conflicts?
Yes, this service experience strongly aligned with my personal values and beliefs. I believe in fairness, equal access to resources, and the importance of protecting human rights, especially for vulnerable populations. Learning about the challenges immigrants face in the legal system reinforced my belief that more support and advocacy are needed. I was particularly impacted by the idea that individuals, including children, may have to represent themselves in court, which I find deeply concerning. There were no major conflicts between the experience and my values; instead, it strengthened my commitment to social justice. If anything, it motivated me to become more involved and informed. This experience confirmed that I am interested in work that supports marginalized communities and promotes equity, and it encouraged me to think more seriously about how I can contribute in the future.

1. What skills did you develop or improve through this service experience?
Through my service experience at Room in the Inn, I developed and strengthened several important skills, especially communication and adaptability. Serving food to individuals from diverse backgrounds required me to interact respectfully and clearly, even when conversations were brief. I learned how to read social cues and respond with empathy, which improved my interpersonal communication. I also strengthened my teamwork skills by coordinating with other volunteers to ensure meals were served efficiently. Time management was another skill I improved, as we had to prepare and serve food within a limited timeframe. Additionally, I developed greater patience and problem-solving abilities, especially when unexpected challenges arose, such as managing long lines or addressing specific needs. Overall, this experience helped me become more aware, flexible, and responsive in a service-oriented environment, while also building confidence in my ability to contribute positively in community-based settings.

2. What did you learn about the community or environment you served?
Volunteering at Room in the Inn gave me a deeper understanding of the homeless community and the challenges many individuals face daily. I learned that homelessness is not always the result of a single factor but often a combination of circumstances such as job loss, mental health struggles, or lack of support systems. Interacting with the people we served helped me see them as individuals with unique stories rather than stereotypes. I also realized how important organizations like this are in providing not just food, but dignity, respect, and a sense of community. The environment was welcoming, and it emphasized treating every person with kindness. This experience challenged some of my previous assumptions and made me more aware of the systemic issues that contribute to homelessness. It also highlighted the importance of consistent community support and the impact that small acts of service can have on someone’s day.

3. Did you work individually or as part of a team, and how did that impact your experience?
I worked as part of a team during my volunteer experience, and it had a significant impact on how effective and meaningful the service was. Each volunteer had a specific role, whether it was preparing food, serving meals, or organizing supplies, and we had to communicate and coordinate to make everything run smoothly. Being part of a team made the experience more efficient because tasks were shared, and we could support each other when challenges came up. It also created a sense of camaraderie and shared purpose, which made the experience more enjoyable and rewarding. Working with others allowed me to learn from different perspectives and approaches, especially when interacting with the community we were serving. Overall, teamwork made the environment more organized and positive, and it reinforced the idea that service is often most impactful when people collaborate toward a common goal.

4. Do you plan to continue volunteering with this organization? Why or why not?
Yes, I do plan to continue volunteering with Room in the Inn because the experience was both meaningful and impactful. Serving food may seem like a simple task, but I saw firsthand how much it meant to the people receiving it. The organization creates a respectful and supportive environment, which made me feel that my time and effort were truly valued. I also appreciated how structured and organized the program was, making it easy for volunteers to contribute effectively. Continuing to volunteer would allow me to build stronger connections within the community and further develop the skills I gained during this experience. Additionally, it aligns with my personal values of helping others and being involved in my community. I believe that consistent involvement can make a greater difference over time, and I would like to be part of that ongoing support system for those in need.

5. What would you change about your approach to this service opportunity in the future?
In the future, I would approach this service opportunity with even more intentionality and preparation. One thing I would change is being more proactive in engaging with the individuals we serve, rather than focusing mainly on completing tasks. While serving food efficiently is important, taking a few extra moments to have genuine interactions could make the experience more meaningful for both myself and others. I would also try to learn more about the organization beforehand so I can better understand its mission and the needs of the community. Additionally, I would work on being more confident in stepping into different roles if needed, rather than staying within my comfort zone. Finally, I would consider volunteering more regularly instead of just once, so I can build stronger connections and have a deeper impact. Overall, I would aim to be more present, informed, and engaged.

What skills did you develop or improve through this service experience?

Through my volunteering experience at the Catholic Charities garden on March 21st, I developed and strengthened several important skills, especially teamwork, communication, and physical endurance. Working alongside 15 other students required constant coordination to ensure that tasks such as pulling weeds, clearing garden beds, and organizing the space were completed efficiently. I had to communicate clearly with others to divide responsibilities and avoid overlapping work, which helped me improve my ability to collaborate in a group setting.

Additionally, I improved my time management skills. Since we had a specific goal—to prepare the garden for the next group of students arriving the following weekend—we had to stay focused and work steadily to complete everything on time. This pushed me to stay organized and motivated throughout the service period.

I also developed a greater sense of responsibility and attention to detail. Clearing out a garden is not just about removing visible weeds; it requires careful work to ensure the soil is properly prepared for planting. I learned to be more mindful of the quality of my work and how it would impact future volunteers and the success of the crops.

Overall, this experience helped me build practical life skills that are transferable to both academic and professional settings, while also showing me the importance of contributing meaningfully to a shared goal.

What did you learn about the community or environment you served?

Through this service experience, I gained a deeper understanding of how important local food systems are to supporting communities in need. I learned that the garden we worked on plays a direct role in providing fresh produce for food pantries that operate Monday through Thursday. Before this experience, I did not fully realize how much effort and planning goes into maintaining a garden that serves as a food source for others.

This experience also helped me better understand issues related to food insecurity. Seeing firsthand how the garden contributes to feeding people made me more aware of the challenges that some individuals and families face in accessing healthy food. It highlighted the importance of community-based initiatives in addressing these issues and showed me how even small contributions, like clearing weeds, can have a meaningful impact.

Environmentally, I learned more about the preparation process required before planting can begin. Removing weeds and maintaining the soil are essential steps in ensuring that crops can grow successfully. This gave me a greater appreciation for the work that goes into sustainable gardening and food production.

Overall, this experience helped me see the direct connection between environmental care and community well-being. It made me more aware of how service work can support both people and the environment at the same time.

Did you work individually or as part of a team, and how did that impact your experience?

During this service experience, I worked as part of a team alongside 15 other students, and this had a very positive impact on my overall experience. Because the project involved clearing a large garden space, teamwork was essential to getting the work done efficiently. We divided tasks among ourselves, with some people focusing on pulling weeds while others worked on clearing debris or organizing tools. This made the workload feel more manageable and helped us stay productive throughout the day.

Working in a team also made the experience more enjoyable. Instead of feeling like a long or tiring task, it felt more like a shared effort where everyone was contributing toward the same goal. We were able to talk, encourage each other, and stay motivated, which made the time go by faster. It also created a sense of community among us, even if we didn’t all know each other beforehand.

Additionally, being part of a team helped me learn how to adapt to different working styles. Some people worked quickly, while others were more detail-oriented, and we had to find a balance to ensure the job was done well. This improved my ability to collaborate and be flexible in group settings.

Overall, working as a team not only made the project more effective but also made it a fun and rewarding experience.

Organizational Impact and Alignment

How did your service contribute to the mission or goals of the organization?

My service directly contributed to the mission of the organization by helping prepare the garden that provides food for local food pantries. Catholic Charities focuses on supporting individuals and families in need, and the garden is an important part of that mission because it supplies fresh produce to the community. By clearing out weeds and preparing the soil, my group helped ensure that the garden would be ready for planting, which is a crucial step in the food production process.

Our work also supported the continuity of the organization’s efforts. The next group of students from Miami University was scheduled to plant crops the following weekend, and without proper preparation, their work would have been more difficult or less effective. By completing the initial cleanup, we made it possible for them to focus on planting, which keeps the process moving forward smoothly.

Additionally, our service helped maintain the overall quality and sustainability of the garden. A well-maintained garden is more productive and can provide a greater amount of food over time. This means that our efforts have a lasting impact beyond just one day of volunteering.

Overall, my participation helped support the organization’s goal of addressing food insecurity and serving the community, while also contributing to a larger, ongoing effort that involves multiple groups working together.

What unexpected challenges did you face, and how did you overcome them?

One unexpected challenge I faced during this service experience was the physical difficulty of clearing out the garden. Pulling weeds and working in the soil for an extended period of time was more tiring than I initially expected. The repetitive motions and the amount of effort required made the work physically demanding, especially under the outdoor conditions.

Another challenge was figuring out the most efficient way to remove weeds without damaging the soil or leaving roots behind. At first, I was not sure how thorough I needed to be, and I realized that simply pulling the top of the weed was not enough. I had to adjust my approach and be more careful to remove the entire root so that the weeds would not grow back quickly.

I overcame these challenges by pacing myself and learning from others in my group. Watching how other students approached the task helped me improve my technique, and we also encouraged each other to keep going when the work became tiring. Taking short breaks when needed allowed me to maintain my energy and stay focused.

Despite these challenges, I still found the experience to be very fun and rewarding. Overcoming these obstacles made me feel more accomplished and showed me that even difficult tasks can be enjoyable when you are working toward a meaningful goal with others.

1. What skills did you develop or improve through this service experience?
Through my service experience at Swing Lab in Collierville, Tennessee, I developed and improved several important skills. One of the main skills I strengthened was attention to detail, as I had to accurately create around 40 player profiles using HitTrax. Each profile required specific baseball data such as player names, teams, and performance metrics, so precision was very important. I also improved my organizational skills by managing a large amount of information efficiently before the start of two major camps. Time management was another key skill I developed, since this task had to be completed within a limited timeframe to ensure everything was ready before players arrived. Additionally, I gained experience in working with sports technology, which helped me better understand how data can be used to improve player development and performance tracking in baseball environments.

2. What did you learn about the community or environment you served?
While volunteering at Swing Lab in Collierville, Tennessee, I learned that the local baseball community is very focused on player development and giving athletes opportunities to improve through advanced tools and coaching. Many of the players attending the camps were serious about getting better and valued having access to systems like HitTrax, which allow them to track their progress in real time. I also noticed that the environment is supportive and centered around growth, where coaches, staff, and players all contribute to helping each other succeed. The facility plays an important role in the community by providing a space where young athletes can train, compete, and develop their skills. This experience showed me how important organization and preparation are in maintaining a high-quality training environment, especially when working with large groups of athletes during events like camps.

3. Did you work individually or as part of a team, and how did that impact your experience?
During this service experience, I worked individually to complete the task of creating approximately 40 player profiles before the camps. This type of work is similar to a secretary role and requires a high level of focus and independence. Working alone meant that I was fully responsible for ensuring that each profile was completed accurately and on time. This helped me build confidence in my ability to handle important tasks without direct supervision. At the same time, even though I worked independently, my work was still connected to the larger team at Swing Lab. The profiles I created were essential for coaches and players to use during the camp, so I understood that my role contributed to the overall success of the event. This balance between individual responsibility and team impact made the experience more meaningful and showed me how different roles work together.

4. How did your service contribute to the mission or goals of the organization?
My service directly supported the mission of Swing Lab, which is to help baseball players improve their skills through structured training and performance tracking. By creating around 40 player profiles in HitTrax before the camps, I helped ensure that each athlete would be able to access accurate data about their performance. This preparation allowed the camps to run more efficiently because players could immediately begin using the system without delays. It also helped coaches focus more on instruction rather than administrative setup. The profiles made it possible for players to track their progress, analyze their strengths and weaknesses, and set goals for improvement. Overall, my work contributed to creating a more organized and professional environment, which aligns with Swing Lab’s goal of providing high-quality training experiences for athletes in the community.

5. What unexpected challenges did you face, and how did you overcome them?
One unexpected challenge I faced during this service experience was the amount of time and focus required to complete all 40 player profiles accurately before the camps. Since each profile required detailed baseball information, it was easy to make small mistakes if I rushed. Another challenge was staying organized while handling a large number of players and making sure no information was missing. To overcome these challenges, I developed a system where I double-checked each profile after creating it and worked in a structured order to stay consistent. I also made sure to pace myself so I could maintain accuracy instead of rushing through the task. By staying focused and organized, I was able to complete all the profiles on time and ensure they were ready for use. This experience taught me the importance of patience, attention to detail, and having a clear process when handling large responsibilities.

1) What skills did you develop or improve through this service experience?

During the Level Up class on November 5th, I strengthened my ability to communicate clearly with English learners at different proficiency levels. I improved my patience and adaptability, especially when helping students who needed extra time or explanation. I also developed stronger cross-cultural communication skills by interacting with participants from diverse Spanish-speaking backgrounds. Another important skill I practiced was breaking down complex ideas into simple, accessible steps for beginners. Overall, this single session helped me become more confident in leading educational activities and supporting adult learners.

2) What did you learn about the community or environment you served?

During this session, I learned that many members of the immigrant community in Memphis are highly motivated to improve their English for work, daily life, and family responsibilities. I saw how important safe, supportive learning spaces like the Level Up program are for building confidence. I also realized that language barriers affect people in very practical ways, from navigating the city to understanding school communication for their children. The environment in the classroom was warm and collaborative, which showed me how much these learners value connection and encouragement. Overall, I gained a deeper appreciation for the resilience and determination within this community.

3) How might these relationships influence your future involvement?

The relationships I built during the November 5th class made me want to stay more involved with World Relief Memphis and similar programs. Connecting with learners who trusted me to help them made the work feel meaningful, not just educational. It also showed me how even small acts—like encouraging a student or clarifying a sentence—can genuinely impact someone’s confidence. These interactions motivated me to continue using my Spanish to support immigrant communities in Memphis. In the future, I can see myself volunteering more consistently or even pursuing roles related to language access or community engagement.

4) How did your service contribute to the mission or goals of the organization?

World Relief Memphis aims to empower immigrants and refugees by providing resources that help them integrate and succeed. By assisting during the Level Up class, I helped create a supportive environment where learners felt comfortable practicing English. My Spanish skills allowed participants to ask questions more freely and understand instructions without feeling embarrassed. Supporting their language development directly aligns with the organization’s goal of helping clients become more confident and independent. Even in one session, I contributed to strengthening their educational mission and building trust with the community they serve.

5) What unexpected challenges did you face, and how did you overcome them?

One unexpected challenge during the November 5th session was balancing the different skill levels within the same classroom. Some students understood directions quickly, while others needed step-by-step explanations. I overcame this by adjusting my communication style and finding ways to support slower learners without holding back the rest of the group. Another challenge was encouraging shy participants to speak out loud, which I handled by pairing them with supportive partners and asking gentle, low-pressure questions. These small adjustments helped create a more inclusive and productive learning environment for everyone.

What skills did you develop or improve through this service experience?
Through this service, I improved my ability to pay close attention to detail, especially when following the complicated steps of a trial. I also practiced critical thinking by analyzing what was happening in court and how each step connected to the larger legal process. Additionally, I strengthened my note-taking and observation skills in a professional and serious setting.

Did this experience change your perspective on your role within the community or environment?
Yes, this experience gave me a deeper appreciation of how important it is for community members to be present in courtrooms. Watching a trial reminded me that accountability and transparency in the justice system often depend on citizens paying attention. It showed me that my role isn’t just to be an observer, but also to be engaged and informed about how justice is carried out in my community.

How might these relationships influence your future involvement?
By connecting with Memphis Crime Beat and other courtwatchers, I now feel encouraged to continue being involved in civic life. These relationships could lead me to volunteer more often, advocate for fairness in the justice system, and potentially support organizations that focus on criminal justice reform.

How did your service contribute to the mission or goals of the organization?
My participation supported Memphis Crime Beat’s goal of increasing transparency in the court system. By showing up and watching proceedings, I contributed to the broader mission of public accountability and awareness. Each courtwatcher’s presence reinforces the idea that the community is invested in how trials are conducted.

Did your service align with your personal values and beliefs? If not, how did you handle any conflicts?
Yes, my service aligned with my values. I believe in fairness, transparency, and justice, and courtwatching allowed me to actively support these principles. There were no conflicts with my beliefs, but the experience challenged me to think critically about the complexity of the legal system and the people affected by it.

What skills did you develop or improve through this service experience?
I improved my organizational skills by helping to sort and arrange boxes in preparation for the fair. I also practiced teamwork and communication by coordinating tasks with other students to make the process more efficient.

What did you learn about the community or environment you served?
I learned more about the supportive and collaborative environment of the Study Abroad Office. The staff and student volunteers are committed to creating opportunities for others to explore new cultures, which made me appreciate the effort that goes into promoting global experiences on campus.

Did you work individually or as part of a team, and how did that impact your experience?
I worked as part of a team with two other students, both of whom had studied abroad in Japan. Working together made the tasks more enjoyable and efficient, and it gave me the opportunity to connect with them by sharing experiences and perspectives on studying abroad.

How did your service contribute to the mission or goals of the organization?
By helping to prepare materials and organize supplies for the fair, I contributed to the office’s mission of encouraging and supporting students who are interested in studying abroad. My work helped ensure that the fair will run smoothly and be welcoming for students who want to learn more about international opportunities.

What would you change about your approach to this service opportunity in the future?
In the future, I would like to be more proactive in learning about the study abroad programs being represented so I can better explain them to other students. While my main role was logistical support, gaining more knowledge could help me be an even stronger advocate for international education.

How has this experience influenced your future career or educational goals?
This experience further confirmed my interest in pursuing a career in law, specifically immigration law. By observing how judges handle scheduling requests and custody issues, I gained a deeper understanding of courtroom procedures and the importance of detail in legal work. It reinforced my desire to continue developing the skills needed to work in the legal system.

Did this experience change your perspective on your role within the community or environment?
Yes, it reminded me that even as a volunteer observer, my role contributes to accountability and transparency within the judicial system. It showed me that community involvement can help ensure fairness and highlight patterns that may otherwise go unnoticed. I now see my role as more active in supporting justice, even if indirectly.

How might these relationships influence your future involvement?
The connections I have made with judges and court staff continue to motivate me. These relationships are valuable not only for mentorship and guidance but also for understanding different perspectives within the legal profession. They may open doors to future opportunities and help me navigate my career path.

Do you plan to continue volunteering with this organization? Why or why not?
Yes, I plan to continue volunteering because the experience is both educational and inspiring. Each session provides me with new insights into the court system and allows me to practice observation skills that will be essential in my future career. The flexibility of the program also makes it manageable with my schedule.

What would you change about your approach to this service opportunity in the future?
In the future, I would like to prepare more questions in advance to ask judges or staff when appropriate. While I’ve already learned a great deal, I think being more intentional with my interactions will help me maximize the value of this opportunity. I would also like to track broader trends across sessions to deepen my understanding of how cases move through the system

What skills did you develop or improve through this service experience?
Through this experience, I improved my observation and note-taking skills, especially while following different types of court cases. I also strengthened my professional communication skills by speaking with judges and court staff, which helped me gain confidence in engaging with people in the legal field.

What did you learn about the community or environment you served?
I learned that the court system is complex and involves many moving parts, but it also plays a major role in shaping outcomes for individuals in the community. Watching drug court in particular showed me how the judicial system not only punishes but also tries to rehabilitate. I gained a better understanding of how our community struggles with issues like substance abuse and how the courts attempt to address those challenges.

What new connections or relationships did you form during your service?
I had the chance to talk to three different judges, all of whom were open and gracious in answering my questions. I was able to make professional contacts with them, which is valuable for me as I am pursuing a career in immigration law. These connections gave me encouragement and insight into the pathways available in the legal profession.

How did the organization support or guide you during your service?
The court watch program provided clear guidance on what to observe and how to track trend. I felt supported by Leslie and fellow volunteers by having a structured purpose during my time in court, which made my experience meaningful and productive.

Did your service align with your personal values and beliefs? If not, how did you handle any conflicts?
Yes, my service aligned with my values. I believe strongly in accountability, fairness, and justice, and observing the courts gave me the chance to see how these ideals are applied in real-world situations. The experience confirmed my desire to continue on the path toward becoming an immigration lawyer.

Through this service experience, I improved my communication and persuasion skills. I learned how to approach people, engage them in meaningful conversations, and convince them to give their time and DNA by swabbing their cheeks. This helped me become more confident and effective in explaining the importance of the cause. I learned that people are generally very supportive and willing to help when they understand the importance of a cause. Many individuals were eager to donate and were interested in learning about the Gift of Life organization. This reinforced my belief in the community’s willingness to support people with blood-borne cancers. I worked as part of a team during my service, which positively impacted my experience. Collaborating with others allowed us to reach more people and share responsibilities. If one of us wasn’t sure about specific information, we could rely on each other for support. This teamwork made the process more efficient and enjoyable. Yes, I plan to continue volunteering with the Gift of Life organization. They have an incredible mission of helping people with blood-borne cancers, and it’s inspiring to see how our efforts can save lives. Being part of this organization aligns with my values and desire to make a meaningful difference. One unexpected challenge was convincing some people who were hesitant or unsure about donating their DNA. I overcame this by listening to their concerns, providing clear and empathetic explanations about the process, and sharing the potential impact of their contribution. This experience taught me patience and adaptability when addressing people’s doubts.