by: Lindsay Cox
The Center for Academic Success (CAS) offers a variety of resources, one of them being the iConnect program. iConnect is a mentorship program that creates events to bring people at Parkland together, giving everyone a chance to socialize and make friends. iConnect has the goal of helping build a welcoming and safe community of diverse students. The mentorship program provides students with the tools they need for successful academic, personal and professional development.
iConnect mentor, Matt Harper, described iConnect as a program that helps with things other than homework. iConnect is available for anyone who may be struggling with organizational skills, test anxiety and/or conversational English. Harper chose to join iConnect during a transitional time in his life; he had just gotten back from training with the military. Not knowing how he was going to make money, an opportunity with CAS appeared.
He had other reasons for staying with the program. Harper want to apply to an EMT service, but since becoming a mentor he has seen a difference in himself and changes that he’s made while doing this job that has made him hesitant to do so. Harper dreams about making a difference in this world; iConnect is the job that is helping fulfill that dream.
After three years at Parkland and two semesters of training in the military, Harper thinks he has finally found what he truly wants to in do with his life. He wants to work at a hospital, either as nurse practitioner, physician assistant or a hospitalist. He’s not entirely sure, but he does know that he wants to help by treating patients and helping them obtain a sustainable, healthy and happy life.
When asked what he would like students to know about iConnect, Harper said that, “I want everyone to know that iConnect is available for anyone. Even if you feel that your problem does not match the services we provide, give it a chance. I have always thought that simply talking to someone about my problems has always alleviated the stress of bearing it by myself. iConnect is there for you; don’t be afraid of speaking out and getting help.”
Another iConnect mentor and staff tech, Jose Bucio, talked to the Prospectus about his experience. Bucio helps the mentorship program run smoothly by working on flyers, assisting in coordinating events and maintaining communication with peer mentors with any questions. Bucio became a part of iConnect after a friend recommended that he take advantage of the opportunity to have a job that is flexible enough that he can work between classes and still have enough free time to be able to make connections with other students.
“If the students would like to meet the mentors and need help with their needs and developments, our mentors have walk-ins every day at the Center for Academic Success. Please ask the student workers from the CAS front desk about iConnect and walk-ins. They will guide you to meet the iConnect mentors and ask them for help about anything. We always welcome new faces and students who need mentorship to make the best of their time at Parkland College,” Bucio said.
Bucio is building an impressive resume that will reflect all the leadership and creativity skills that he has acquired from his time as a mentor. He is also learning French, Portuguese and Arabic to be able to have conversations with international students. This is Bucio’s last semester at Parkland before he earns his Associate in Engineering Science. He plans to obtain his master’s and PhD in Computer Science so that he can help improve technology, human health and the environment.
Hanna Ma is another mentor at iConnect. She helps to build intimate relationships with all the mentees to help them with their transition into adulthood. With all the knowledge that Hanna has gained through her experience as an international student, she helps students navigate the rough waters of college life.
Ma’s goal is to share how she overcame the difficult situations that students might be going through and how they can overcome them too. Her biggest goal is to make sure that her mentees enjoy everything that Parkland has to offer. When asked what is something that you want students to know about iConnect, Hanna Ma replied, “We want students to be successful in school. We establish connections among students so that they can enjoy their college lives. This program is lots more fun than people think!”
Sangmin Kim is the final iConnect mentor who spoke with the Prospectus. Kim mentors the first year and international students by helping them with their schooling. He chose to be a part of iConnect because he had a hard time his first year and wishes that he could have received some help.
During Kim’s second year at Parkland, he volunteered for the iConnect program to help other students in need. He is also an international student and believes that he can understand more about what other international students experience. “If you need any help come down to the iConnect table in D120,” Kim said. “This is where we can help you out and arrange a meeting with a mentor who can help you.”
For more information about the iConnect program, visit the Center for Academic Success or contact Melanie Whited at mwhited@parkland.edu.
