by Trevor Spellman

This semester I had the opportunity to intern with the Center for Interfaith Cooperation (CIC). Working with this passionate group of individuals dedicated to the purpose of cooperatively among all religious affiliations was an incredible learning experience. Throughout my internship I focused on improving the relationships between the CIC’s immigration and refugee service core members and their respective partner organizations to improve the overall efficacy of the program. In the process, I was able to apply the skills that I have attained in my study of Psychology at Butler to create comprehensive surveys that will allow for in depth analysis in the future. While I was working on this assignment, my eyes were opened to all of the great and beneficial service organizations throughout the Indianapolis community. Working with the Center for Interfaith Cooperation was a great way to get out of my comfort zone and get exposure to the true Indianapolis community beyond the Butler Bubble. As an intern, I was able to meet some of the most prominent religious leaders in Indiana, such as KP Singh, and realize the Hoosier state’s relevance as a leader in interfaith cooperation at the national level (we’ll even be hosting the Dali Lama this June!) Overall, my time with the Center for Interfaith Cooperation was an extremely rewarding and beneficial experience. I was able to further my understanding of interfaith cooperatively, enhance the efficacy of service programs, develop a stronger sense of belonging to the Indianapolis community, and meet people that have influenced me greatly.