From Camp to Classroom: Supporting Diverse Learners

For Ariana Ofori '26, working as a special-needs camp counselor through CELA’s Internship+ program last summer seamlessly connected to her studies in psychology and education studies.

“Disability has many faces; every interaction I had with my campers was unique, each with different needs,” Ofori says. While leading arts-and-crafts activities, she adapted materials to support a range of sensory needs, creating an intentional environment where campers were comfortable being themselves.

The internship was essential to her experiences in the psychology department, as it provided real-world examples that deepened classroom discussions about disability rights in the United States and abroad. Her work with local middle and high school students, along with her CELA-supported camp counselor experience, encouraged her to explore new pathways in psychology and special education, both at home and internationally.

“Applying these techniques and ideas across cultures to bridge gaps in learning worldwide is not just a goal but also a dream,” she says. “Each experience has helped me identify my strengths and areas for growth, as well as a blossoming passion for working with people.”

Through CELA-supported opportunities, Ofori has developed a renewed sense of care, purpose, and compassion for special-needs communities. “Once my journey at Oberlin ends, I aim to make a global impact in special education and psychology,” she says. “Having started teaching in a classroom at Oberlin, I hope to take these opportunities overseas to help learners from all backgrounds.”

Her experiences at Oberlin have shaped how she approaches her work and daily life. Ofori says she aims to treat each day as an opportunity for growth, sharing kindness through teaching, writing, and meaningful interactions with others.

To learn more about summer internship opportunities, visit the Center for Engaged Liberal Arts (CELA).