Erin Cox

Forest Preserve District of Will County

"Personally, the sense of community that I felt each time I participated in the [service learning portion] is stronger than any other I've experienced. I was naturally apprehensive to mingle with the already-close volunteer group, but I was quickly welcomed into this elite group of dedicated volunteers. Each volunteer has such a pure and genuine passion for making a different, and the diversity in demographic was really quite refreshing to see..."

Alec Koczka

"Doing this service learning project has taken me on an interesting path. It has made me a better, more appreciative person for the environment. The next time we are just sitting on the couch or texting bored out of our minds start thinking what could we do to become civically engaged. Our opportunity is waiting, get motivated and get into your community."

Carolyn Micetic

Warren-Sharpe Community Center (Public Relations)

"My service learning class this semester at Lewis was beyond amazing. I worked with a community center in Joliet. I learned so much about what having a real PR job is actually like. The real world experiences taught me way more than any other class I have had before. The part I liked the most was being able to help the community center with my knowledge of PR. I would highly recommend a service learning class to anyone who hasn't had one before."

Nicole Krage

Addison Community Switchboard (Public Relations)

"The service learning component was such a great experience because not only was I able to strengthen my PR skills, but I did that while working with an organization that does great things for its community. It's nice to know that the work I did and the tools I created really matter. It was a wonderful opportunity to make a difference."

CEL Course Student

"CEL has taught me how important it is to communicate with others. It has given me more ideas and has allowed me to express my opinions and thoughts."

Dr. Jennifer Buss

College of Education and Social Sciences

"I love what [CEL] has done for our students. I feel that CEL has set our candidates apart in their communication and their professionalism."

Coffee & Conversation Participant

"Continuing this tradition and getting more people involved would offer more diverse perspectives and ideas."