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Excerpts from Intern Journals

  Excerpts from Interns’ Final Journals

"When I think about the 29 of us blundering around at orientation trying to figure out the exercises, and compare that to us talking shop now, I can hardly believe we're the same bunch of people. Everyone has developed a whole new vocabulary to use in talking about power, our particular campaigns, and the state of the country in general. Personally, I've learned how to do things I didn't even know existed before. I can walk past a rally or an action on a sidewalk somewhere and say, 'We could do that better.' Internship is the wrong word for what this was. We actually became useful to causes that were important to us."
 
"I now think differently.  Whenever I come across the word 'change' I think about a Midwest Academy strategy chart. Honestly, I took the whole strategy chart for granted and as a 'yeah sure I’ll use it when I sit down to plan something out' kinda deal, but it’s now in my way of thinking, essential to approaching any initiative for policy change in society.  I feel that I am now able to serve my community better than ever before."
 
 
"From the beginning, it was clear that our supervisors were willing to give us real responsibility. I was able to focus on my interest in faith-based organizing.  I visited congregations, ran meetings, and coordinated with the leadership of different denominations to address national healthcare.  I have developed a much greater sense of self-confidence. I am more outgoing and willing to have sometimes difficult discussions with others, even if they are strangers. I have also grown in my ability to truly listen to others, and help them identify their own powers and abilities."

“This experience has dramatically altered my perception of power politics and how educating persons toward action is an important component of the political process."

“My fellow interns added to this experience in emotional support and solidifying a sense of belonging to a group of people who are socially minded and destined to do great things.” 
“If I ever had doubts about being an organizer,  I don’t anymore. I believe in me and the change that I can make in people’s lives and the sense of power that I can give them.” 
“I used to be a nodder (someone who just nods and doesn’t say much). Now I am more comfortable standing up for myself and speaking out against injustice.” 
“I had the chance to prove not only to myself but to others that a young Latina can accomplish something positive in society.” 
“One of the most valuable experiences gained from this internship is the understanding that power is not inextricably situated in the hands of the elite. People regardless of race, creed or class can affect change by mobilizing themselves.” 
“So often in past experiences I’ve felt like I’m doing a lot of work but not accomplishing anything. I’m glad to have learned how to plan, and also to have had real responsibility that forced me to face challenges I wouldn’t have otherwise.” 
“The best part of my summer with the Midwest Academy has been the opportunity to reflect on my work. Most places, you’re expected to keep plugging away, day-to-day, week-to-week. Here, I’ve talked with the other interns and organizers throughout the country, which gave me the chance to relate with those dealing with similar problems and successes.”
"The relationships I built with Midwest Academy staff and interns are ones that I will take with me and value for years to come. We’ve been able to do unusual and valuable work this summer, and that is an experience few are blessed enough to have."
“I think having a good life isn’t about how big your paycheck is, it's about your experiences and the impact you've left. Through the internship, I’ve discovered that community organizing is one of life's hidden treasures.” 
“I love being a child of the Midwest Academy!” 
“I now know that I want to remain in the organizing field. I can’t think of a better place for me. This internship really helped me step into my own. It's both challenging and rewarding." 
“There are 20 million obstacles in the way, but people are tired of being screwed over and I’m so optimistic our generation is starting to rise up.” 
“My summer with the Midwest Academy has truly been a transformative experience. I came in with some skills and organizing experience and was a little skeptical about how much I would actually learn in the training, but was amazed by how often I found myself using the training out in the field.”