by Sharita Stallings (GSU Bachelor of Social Work Intern)
Interning at the OAC has been a rewarding moment for me in all aspects of life. On the one hand, I can connect with our guests experiencing homelessness by helping them obtain the necessary documents to help them move forward in life. While on the other hand, I can also connect with them by asking them, “How is your day going?” This opportunity has opened my eyes and allowed me to look at things differently. Interning at the OAC has developed me into a much more patient individual. It has shown me that every guest I encounter will always have a different journey and a different struggle to overcome. Because of this, I have become a better listener, and our guests feel as though they have someone who actively listens and cares about their needs.
Many of our guests come in for services and think that we’re the only ones helping and assisting them. However, I have received many blessings while working and supporting them. In addition to becoming a better listener, I’ve also become a more empathic individual in all of my personal relationships. Interning at OAC has improved my overall well-being, allowing me to give each guest an amazing experience while providing services.
I appreciate every guest and their story and the joy they bring to me while assisting them. Being at the OAC has positively impacted my life, and it has shown me that being in the field of social work is something I am called to do. I am beyond blessed to be interning at the OAC.