Growing up, Cleveland State Service-Learning Program Assistant Brooklyn Sewell never thought college was for her. Fast forward a few years and not only has she completed her associate degree, but she will graduate with her bachelor’s in December and is already making plans to complete her master’s degree, and even considering a doctorate.
Ms. Sewell originally decided to pursue her realtor license because it only required three weeks of school, but said she truly enjoyed the classroom experience and even studying to pass the Real Estate License Exam. Once she obtained her license, she immediately felt like something was missing from her life. After the work of obtaining her real estate license to avoid school, she made the decision to go back to school.
Ms. Sewell enrolled in CSCC’s Advance Business program for working adults. The core business classes are five weeks each and allow students to focus on one-two classes at a time. Ms. Sewell was able to graduate in just 14 months, but students can take a slower path if they choose. She graduated with her associate of science in business management in December of 2016 before enrolling in Bryan College’s Business Administration program.
“When I decided to attend Cleveland State, I had the mindset of ‘I am going to get my degree and never think about that place again.’ Now, it is unquestionable that Cleveland State is my home. I never thought I would go to school or work and actually enjoy it, but Cleveland State proved me wrong. It’s just overall a great place to be.”
She found her current position of Service-Learning Program assistant by taking advantage of the Career Services Department on campus, a department that assists students with career opportunities and resume building. “The moment I saw the position on the TBR Career Opportunity page, I knew that was the job I wished to pursue,” stated Ms. Sewell. “I felt that I could make a huge impact on students. Being a recent graduate from Cleveland State and a current student provides me with the knowledge to find better ways to connect with students.”
As Service-Learning Program assistant, Ms. Sewell assists community partners, service-learning faculty and students to develop a mutually beneficial service-learning partnership. She is always searching for new service opportunities of which Cleveland State students can participate.
“I love having the opportunity to work with various non-profits in our community,” stated Ms. Sewell. “I am thankful they are gracious enough to provide our students with these wonderful opportunities. Service-learning is an amazing concept that is a win-win for the community as a whole. Non-profits can receive the assistance they need to better serve the community, while also providing a positive impact on students’ academic learning and an opportunity to apply what they have learned in the classroom to the real world.”
Ms. Sewell said that most often, students truly enjoy the service and feel that they have walked away with a greater sense of morality and understanding of the community. One of the things she enjoys most about her job is reading the student reflections after they have completed their service. “It is very rewarding to see the transformation of how service-learning altered their outlook on life,” stated Ms. Sewell.
Just as service-learning transforms students’ lives, Cleveland State has transformed Ms. Sewell’s, as well. “CSCC has provided me with life-changing experiences. It provided me with the experiences and insight that I needed to ignite that spark of where I wanted to go in life. Cleveland State not only provided me with powerful mentors that made me realize I really can do anything I want in life, but I also gained many lifetime friends.”
Ms. Sewell continued, “CSCC plays a vital role in the community. Not only is it important to the local economic development, but it also keeps our community strong. You will not attend any type of community event and fail to see CSCC involved in some way. CSCC’s faculty and staff have shown me what the word community truly means.”