The Chat Cafe program has really opened my eyes to the importance of mentoring in an academic institution. Learning from other's experiences is, in my opinion, the best way to enrich one's education and I have had the privilege to serve as a mentor to international students for many semesters during my time as an undergraduate. I think the most rewarding aspect of being a Chat Cafe facilitator is demonstrating compassion when listening to my students' experiences during their transition to the university. I have become more able to appreciate their struggles and have become more sensitive of their vulnerabilites. This semester, I have served as an educational, social, and mental support to my Chat Cafe members, proofreading their applications and papers, introducing intercultural differences, and being a true friend to them.
If I could give one piece of advice to a future Chat Cafe facilitator, it would be to think outside the box when planning your meetings. These students are taking time out of the day to meet with you so you should make their time worthwhile. They should be eager to come back each week, with the hopes of learning something new or experiencing something exciting. Attempt to enrich their experiences to formulate a positive outlook on education in the U.S. in their minds, and calm their worries by being approachable and understanding at all times.
Lastly, I think Writing 302 would benefit if there are more practical learning exercises incorporated into the course. If Chat Cafe facilitators are further trained in communications and dealing with difficult situations through simulations in class, we can be better able to help our students and serve as a more useful resource to them. It would also be great to have some international students visit the class a few times and share their experiences, worries, ideas, so we can gauge which issues are most pressing and interesting to our students, and focus our groups accordingly. (Side note: I have found Facebook messaging/Group Me to be the easiest way to schedules meetings with my group and to communicate with them)
