May 29 update

I spent the majority of this week compiling a list of reference materials for my project.  When taking a break, I designed filters to use in future pictures and tested out ways to measure clients' scars.  On Friday, I took a client to Mary Ellen's office for his forensic evaluation.  I was able to sit in on their interview, which consisted of a detailed account of his torture, the reasons that he cannot return home, and his current medical condition.  While I already had pictures of his torture-related scars, I was also able to take pictures of some of his previous scars, which will be helpful to my studies and to his case.  I'm glad I got the opportunity to sit in on this evaluation; it was one of the things I most looked forward to this summer.  I hope to experience a few more, either with Alejandro or with Mary Ellen.

Almost June

Hi there,

This week went by a bit fast. Basically, I've been working on a lot of the preliminary details for the June 26th event. I sent out an invitation to Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson and I just found out that she is going to be in Washington D.C. on the day of the event. However, her office may send out a representative which would be fantastic!

Also, Brad and I went out to a few local businesses yesterday and I went out to a few today to request donations to renovate the center. We are attempting to create a warm, welcoming and multicultural environment for all clients and visitors.

My presentation happen to come together pretty well this week as well. I just need to foot it with the CST logo and add the sound.

That's about it for now! Some clients just walked in; I really enjoy interacting with each one I meet! Anyway, have a great weekend and week until next time!

Tania

First two weeks

Hi, my name is Mary.  I'm a senior at Texas State University, studying anthropology with a focus on forensics.  This summer I will be photographing clients' scars, both torture-related and from other accidents, in order to try to find patterns in scars that are indicative of specific torture techniques.  

In order to proceed with these studies, I have created a consent form that outlines the goals, methods, and confidentiality procedures of the research project.  Last Tuesday I was able to take photographs of two clients, and I am happy with the results I've had thus far.  As this is a fairly large project, steps have been taken to ensure that future interns, likely graduate students, will continue with the project when I am no longer here.  So far, the project has been extremely successful.  It has been fu getting to know everyone at CST and I'm looking forward to the experiences I will have over the rest of the summer.

First Post

Hello All! Tania here. I’m this summer’s Exxon Mobile Intern at CST. Next fall, I will be a junior at the University of Texas at Dallas working towards a public affairs degree with a minor in political science. This summer I have the pleasure of working with CST’s community relations department. Over the course of the last week and a half, I have been working on a power point presentation for Ashley, the network community relations coordinator. The power point will serve to move potential donors to support CST in working towards aiding in the lives of survivors of international torture. Currently, I am about half way through the presentation and I am focusing on creating a powerful message whereby people will be influenced by the presentation alone.
I was also put in charge of planning and organizing the majority of the June 26 United Nations Day in Support of Victims of Torture. I now have a long term plan and list in which I will set up an agenda for the event that consists of client involvement, music entertainment, food and speakers. Actually, this morning I sent out an invitation to Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson inviting her to speak at the event as she was the first in Texas to sign on as a co-sponsor for the Torture Victims Relief Act. As far as music, I wanted to incorporate an international feel for the event, thus I wanted the music, if at all possible to be performed by clients. We have a few here at CST that may be willing, however I contacted three other organizations that work with international refugees to see if a few of their musically inclined clients would be interested. I’m waiting about a week or so to see how that pans out before I pursue some more people.
I have only been here for a week now, but I have already enjoyed myself and I am extremely excited to see what the rest of the summer brings. Maya, the high school intern, will be here soon and I am eager to see what she brings to our special intern circle that currently consists of Brad, Mary, Brian and me.  Through my interaction with clients, I am reminded how little I am in comparison to the world, but small efforts can lead to great things. That’s why I am here at CST! Get back at you next week!
Tania

The First Week!

Welcome to our blog!! This is the first post of the summer! I think it would be appropriate to first introduce myself. My name is Brad Williams and I am interning at the Center for Survivors of Torture. In addition, I am studying international relations at the University of North Texas, teaching English as a second language, and I also clean pools. It’s a busy life, but I’m looking forward to my summer with CST. I believe I will learn as much about CST as I will about myself.
My first week here has been a busy one! I have been working on various online projects while interacting with the clients. On Tuesday I had the chance to get to know an individual from Iraq who has invited me over to cook fish with him in a few weeks…I can’t wait! He also showed me his apartment and kept me entertained with his exceptional sense of humor. Yesterday I helped a young blind man buy a small table for his apartment while teaching him basic English. My goal is to teach him enough English that will enable him to live more independently of the center. Next Tuesday and Thursday we will be looking at affordable keyboards. I have also participated in several meetings which are aimed at organizing events and getting to know the other staff members. Well, that pretty much sums up my first week working at the center…we are going to try and post every Thursday or Friday.

Brad