CLC Student Journey: Students are Teachers Too

Students at the Cambridge Community Learning Center (CLC) come to learn more, but they also bring a lot of knowledge from their own lives. At the CLC, we try to give students opportunities to share their experiences and skills.

Soheli started at the CLC as an ESOL student. Then, she also began volunteering as a class aide, helping students with computer skills and English literacy.

Soheli is also a research scientist at Harvard University. She studies nanotechnology, a field of science and engineering that focuses on very small things. She wanted to help students at the CLC who are in the High School Equivalency (HSE) Credential Program. To get their HSE Credential, students need to pass subject tests in reading, writing, math, social studies, and science.

Soheli offered to teach a special lesson about electricity in the HSE science class taught by Abra, a teacher at the CLC. “I love the topic of electricity,” Soheli explains. “I like how it has so many daily life applications. We use electricity in so many different ways — like smartphones and household appliances," she says.

In the class, Soheli taught students about voltage and current. "Soheli shared how she has been successful in her career, in a field where most people are men,” shares Abra. “Her story inspired many of the students to think about a career in science. She encouraged everyone to keep studying — to earn their HSE Credential and keep going!”

Inspired by her experience teaching in the HSE program, Soheli enrolled in a 3-month intensive training to become a Teacher of English for Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL). She is now completing a teaching internship.

Do you want to go back to school or help an adult learner with their journey? The CLC can help you. Learn more about our classes and opportunities to volunteer at www.cambridgema.gov/CLC.