We are excited to recognize a stellar volunteer from the ESLC's Citizenship program: Mike Allred. Mike is the citizenship program stealth volunteer, in that his role is not as a traditional classroom teacher! He has been volunteering for 6 years as a pre-interview coach for students who are preparing to take the interview and U.S. citizenship test.
The interview portion of becoming a U.S. Citizen can be anxiety inducing, with so much riding on successfully passing. Mike helps students with one-on-one mock interviews two weeks before their scheduled interview. Mike's willingness to meet students at locations near them helps remove the barrier of transportation and makes a huge difference to each person he works with. He helps support success by giving the folks he works with helpful advice to reduce anxiety and increase confidence in their ability to master a potentially stressful encounter with a USCIS officer. He meets with them as many times as needed until the student gains confidence. After students meet with Mike, they pass the test! He is truly a keystone of the citizenship program's success!
Mike says, "I want students to know that it is my privilege to work with citizenship candidates preparing for their interviews and tests. It helps that I am someone they have not interacted with previously, which is exactly what they will be doing in their interview with the officer. I find that meeting face-to-face with students in a location that is familiar to them, most often where they are attending their class, has been helpful and a more authentic experience. I'm glad I'm a small part of the process and appreciate the hard work they and their instructors have put in before meeting with me."
We're grateful for Mike's time and talents shared with the ESLC! Thanks, Mike!
Are you interested in volunteering with the ESLC? Click here to learn more.
Are you curious about the USCIS Naturalization Test and Interview process? Click here to learn more.
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