The lack of computers for myself and other employees along with the “unique” space made it noticeably more difficult to actually do our jobs. However, the challenge of our situation only made me more motivated to work harder to “make it work”

Working with Matthew on the docuseries has also been a very fruitful experience. Writing and researching and interviewing are truly where most of my talents lie and having the space to flourish was really something I looked forward to constantly. I found myself editing certain clips and almost feeling at peace because the repetition of action was so calming and never for one second did, I feel stressed about it. IMPACT left with a lot of thoughts and feelings both positive and negative, but I can't deny that Matthew and Ms. Marsha and all the friends and acquaintances I made, changed the way I work and think forever.

Overall, I enjoyed my time at IMPACT; although, I did expect to learn more about podcasts. However, I learned how to create a documentary series and got the chance to work hands-on with cameras and more. I liked how IMPACT welcomes everyone with open arms and a positive atmosphere. It allows others who enjoy the same interests to come together and create something great. It was a very interesting experience, and I'm glad I chose this program this summer. The only thing I would want different is the location because there was limited space for a lot of things.

I really enjoyed the program this year and in previous years. It has been better in the past, but this year wasn’t too bad. Even if the surroundings and locations have changed many times, IMPACT has still stayed the same. When I first joined almost 4 years ago, compared to now, the people have always been supportive and kind. In terms of negatives, the only thing I can think of is the building. Like I said, program has been better in the past, but because of the building, we can’t do as much as we used to. There’s less computers now; the space is smaller, and there’s less programs/activities. Besides that, everything else was positive like the community, the skills I picked up, and the lessons I'll be able to use later on in life.

Honestly, it was a good experience. You get to meet new people and explore your options in the workforce. This program helps you discover your talents like your strengths and weaknesses. The people here are like family. They welcome us in like we are their family. I learned so many things being in this program. If there is something good to put on a resume, after being in at IMPACT, it’s teamwork. I only have one bad thing about this program. The space is kind of too small. We need our own space. But, after being at IMPACT for 4 years, this has been a life changing experience. These people like helping the Roseland community. I think everyone should have this experience that I had!

I have had a lovely time here at IMPACT and am grateful for the opportunity to be here.

I want to say thank you so much to Matthew! You have taken such good care of all of us, and I have learned a wealth of knowledge from you and your program. I’m sorry I couldn’t stay longer but know that I have definitely benefited from you and your teachings.

And a huge thank you to Ms. Marsha! Ms. Marsha, you have been very kind to all of us. Regardless of anything going on in our lives, you welcomed us in and treated us like your own kids. You were always quick to communicate with me and help resolve any issues I was having. I am very grateful to have had a chance to be in this program. I promise I will definitely stay in touch when I am in college and will let you know how things are going.

I enjoyed the digital media/internship program. I really learned a lot of valuable lessons in terms of digital media, podcasting, and journalism. I learned how to improve my active listening skills somewhat by transcribing, and I, even, learned about and saw a historical site at the location where the Chicago steel mill used to be. We shot pictures at the location and learned how to take proper pictures. We even learned how social media is affecting our current society in the film, Social Dilemma. Furthermore, we learned how there are hundreds of wrongfully convicted cases in Chicago, and we interviewed some of the black people who have been. We are working on a series involving this important topic.

In terms of downsides, we really need a bigger separate space so we can have a better area to focus on our program. We also need more equipment like more computers, cameras, podcasting kits, and things related to our program. Additionally, we need more funding for our program, and we need more youth to help us to complete this docuseries we are planning to make. Lastly, we need more to be able to travel to more historical sites and the sites of events where our wrongfully convicted people were incarcerated. These things are important because while the program gives so much depth and lessons this would give us even more hands-on/ memorable experiences.