At iACT, we have great appreciation for the wonderful volunteers who make our service work possible! In this Volunteer Spotlight iACT Volunteer Kariman Mahmoud tells us a little more about herself.
How long have you been in Austin?
I am from Egypt. I moved to San Marcos, Texas a year ago to pursue my Ph.D. in adult learning and leadership.
How long have you volunteered with iACT?
I volunteered and worked for several nonprofit educational organizations. I have supported all kinds of volunteering work, especially those who volunteer for education, which requires serious commitment and investment of time and energy. I started volunteering with iACT as a teaching assistant for the ELI (ESL) program in February 2024.
What made you want to volunteer with iACT?
I adore supporting my community when I can. I also want to be an example for my students. I want them to understand the importance of being a member of the community and participating in events when they can. Additionally, connecting with people to push my comfort levels.
What do you enjoy most about working with iACT?
I enjoy iACT’s friendly environment, welcoming and hardworking staff, and how organized and convenient the volunteers’ recruitment and orientation process are, which makes the volunteering experience enjoyable for a person who is oriented and driven by a sense of accomplishment like me.
What’s the most challenging thing about working with iACT that you experienced?
Communicating effectively with learners from different cultures and backgrounds using simple, straightforward language and dealing intelligently with their emotions without contributing to their depression or anxiety.
What’s the most rewarding thing about working with iACT that you experienced?
Leaving your comfort zone and encountering several problems to solve them as a volunteer requires you to exert certain critical thinking and social skills to boost your personal development.
Why would you encourage others to perform similar volunteer work with iACT?
Because it provides a wide range of volunteering programs for volunteers to engage in noteworthy ways that associate with their interests and passions, which can drive their participation to be a part of something they make a difference in and recognize the impact of their collective efforts.
