CODES at SIUE stands for Community Oriented Digitally Engaged Scholars. CODES is a program designed to help students develop professional and interpersonal skills through collaborative, hands-on experiences. The program brings students together to work on projects, solve problems, communicate with one another, and learn how to work effectively as part of a team. Rather than focusing only on academics, CODES emphasizes skills that students can carry with them into their careers and everyday lives.
For me, CODES has been a valuable part of my college experience and has helped me grow in ways I did not expect. Through the program, I have become more comfortable working in group settings and have learned that everyone has something different to bring to the table. I have also become a much more confident presenter and feel less anxious when speaking in front of large groups of people. CODES has challenged me to step outside of my comfort zone, learn from others, and recognize my own strengths. The skills and confidence I have gained through this experience will continue to benefit me as I pursue my career in speech-language pathology.