Learning my Strengths through the OCDEL Policy Fellowship
by Jessica Chelik, 2018 OCDEL Policy Fellow
Since starting the fellowship in September, I feel that I have learned new things about myself both professionally and personally.
Prior to the fellowship I was at a crossroads as to what direction in my life I wanted to explore. The fellowship has allowed me to learn more about different programs under OCDEL that I didn’t have much knowledge about before, such as Keystone STARS and child care. I also learned how long it takes for policies to be developed and the processes involved for a policy to be finalized.
My favorite part of the fellowship thus far has been the Strengths Finders activity. I found it interesting to learn what my top 5 strengths are. It has also allowed me to use my strengths in my job when interacting with staff and families.
My mentor, Emily Hackleman, has been amazing and very supportive throughout my fellowship , including my project. When I tell people that my project is in relation to data, they find it so funny because they know I am the least tech person around. My vision for my project is that it will be a useful tool for Early Intervention programs when reviewing their data. My project involves giving suggestions or ways that programs can review their data to help them see their strengths and works on areas that may need improvement.
I am halfway done with my fellowship and I am looking forward to see what I learn during the remainder of the fellowship.