Reem Dahdal has a promising career ahead of her, thanks to exemplary computer skills and dedicated Moraine Valley staff members who helped her gain valuable experience through an internship at the Moraine Valley Community College Foundation.

“I enjoy data entry because I am very tenacious and detail-oriented,” Reem said. “I like working with databases and seeing the big picture. On a personal note, I am determined not to surrender to my condition (Leigh’s Syndrome), and I have a strong will to be a contributing member of society. Computers are an essential part of the work environment and are highly accessible. They also can be adapted for my abilities as I have limited use and strength in my hands.”

Reem started taking classes at Moraine Valley to earn a Data Entry certificate and enjoyed the program, so she decided also to pursue an Office Assistant certificate. “My amazing teacher, Cathi Predl, who is also the internship manager for Office Technology, encouraged me throughout the journey. She worked very hard, along with the Job Resource Center and the Center for Disability Services, to secure me an internship position on campus,” she said.

Reem is interning in the Foundation’s office, updating its database. “I am enjoying this experience because it is allowing me to learn more about the Foundation, how it functions and the value it adds to the college,” she said, sharing that she also is a Foundation scholarship recipient.

The best part of the internship, Reem said, is that she can apply what she has learned in the classroom to the real-world office setting. “I very much enjoy the office environment, the connections and the social interactions with the staff at the Foundation. I appreciate this experience as I am gaining new knowledge and learning new skills,” Reem said.

Upon graduation, Reem said she would like to work at a school or in a pediatrician’s office entering data. “I enjoy both the education and medical fields and would like to contribute back to them. I’m very thankful for the amazing staff at Moraine Valley and a proud Cyclone,” she said.