Read our students' stories that start from the CUHK and go further beyond.

During my internship at YMCA Erdman Camp, I learned the importance of seeking help and overcoming language barriers. At first, my limited English proficiency made it challenging to understand work assignments and instructions. I hesitated to ask for assistance, fearing that I would inconvenience others or hinder my own performance.

Fortunately, one of my supervisors provided me with valuable advice. He reassured me that seeking help is not a sign of incompetence but a proactive way to learn and grow. He even encouraged me to seek help from children, as it could help them develop their own skills in assisting others. Inspired by this advice, I actively sought guidance from my colleagues and the younger participants.

Engaging in conversations with native English speakers and seeking clarification gradually improved my language skills. The more I interacted with my colleagues and expressed my eagerness to learn, the more willing they were to support and guide me. This positive feedback loop boosted my confidence and enhanced my work performance.

One of my most memorable achievements during the internship was teaching children how to dance "Genghis Khan" in English. Overcoming the language barrier and ensuring their understanding was a challenge. However, through patience, creativity, and a genuine desire to connect with the children, I successfully communicated the instructions. Witnessing the children's progress and receiving applause during our performance was incredibly rewarding.

Another obstacle I faced was gaining the cooperation of mischievous American children. It was difficult to make them listen and participate in assigned activities. However, by carefully observing and understanding their interests, I discovered their love for candy. I leveraged this knowledge by using small treats as rewards, establishing rapport, and creating a positive relationship with the children. This approach encouraged their cooperation and engagement.

Overall, my internship experience taught me the value of proactively seeking help from any available source. It emphasized the importance of building connections, overcoming language barriers, and finding creative ways to engage with others. Through this process, I improved my language skills and gained a deeper appreciation for collaboration and effective communication in achieving shared goals.