Beth Plas '08

Major: Accounting

“I started working with the America Reads Program, first as a tutor, then a coordinator, and I became a van driver too. My role transitioned into working with service learning courses, including courses in American Sign Language and Family, Consumer and Nutritional Sciences departments.

“I was an accounting major and volunteered doing taxes one tax season for a non-profit providing free tax prep to low-income individuals. I gave me great experience in my field, but also the experience of interacting with the people in my community that really opened my eyes.

“Working in the office with Martha coordinating some of the service learning classes really helped build my confidence and sharpen my communication skills to be able to work with professors, students and community site leaders. Communication skills are so important in the real business world! I work with clients all the time and have to be confident and effective in my communication to get the work done. Community Work and Learning and St. Kate’s prepared me for that.

“I feel more connected to the greater Twin Cities community because of my experience with Community Work and Learning, and I feel it was a great thing to get involved with, especially as a first year moving away from the only “community” I knew. There are so many different types of community groups that one can get involved in to fit your interests.”

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