During my internship, I had the unique opportunity to apply my Arabic language skills to make a tangible impact in my local community by working with TABLE, a nonprofit organization in Carrboro that is dedicated to providing local families with nutritious food. Through my role as a translator, I helped bridge the language gap between Arabic-speaking families and the essential resources TABLE provides, including food access and nutrition education. My work was primarily focused on translating surveys and newsletters from English to Arabic, materials that were crucial in informing families about TABLE’s food provisions and community programs. 

Professionally, this internship not only allowed me to practice and refine my translation skills in a real-world context, but also deepened my understanding of the intersection between language, culture, and community service. I learned how to navigate the challenges of translating information about social services, ensuring that the content remained culturally sensitive and accessible to Arabic-speaking families. 

One of the most rewarding aspects of my internship was being able to contribute to an organization with such a powerful mission, all the while employing language as a tool for social good. Through CMEIS, I was able to connect with faculty, fellow students, and community leaders who shared my interests in cultural and linguistic studies. Working under Alaa’s guidance was incredibly inspiring, as she emphasized the importance of passion and precision in translation work, while also encouraging me to approach each task with empathy and a deep commitment to serving the community. I am beyond grateful for the opportunity to work with both CMEIS and TABLE, and I strongly recommend this internship to anyone looking to combine their passion for language with meaningful community engagement. 

– Dahna Buheis