My first 50 days at ACH: Hashim Abdullah
Starting a new role is always a mix of excitement and uncertainty, and my internship at ACH was no exception. In this blog, I will take you through my journey – how I stepped into this role, the challenges I faced, and the invaluable lessons I learned along the way.
On my first day, I felt a mix of excitement and nervousness. I was stepping into a unique environment, taking on responsibilities that felt unfamiliar, and collaborating with people from diverse backgrounds. My role as a Teaching Assistant and Resource Developer focused on supporting refugees and migrants, helping them improve their English and Digital skills so they could integrate into their new communities.
I was eager to get started, but I also knew there would be challenges ahead. When I initially joined, I did not have many expectations beyond what was described in the job role. I understood that it would be centred around teaching and supporting clients, which seemed like a great fit for my career goals. However, my role quickly expanded in ways I had not anticipated. I worked closely with Sarah, my mentor, and Employability Officer, not only delivering lessons but also developing resources, helping clients navigate digital learning, and offering employability support.
One of the biggest projects I worked on was developing a ‘Life in the UK’ Moodle course. Before this I had no experience with Moodle, but because of the guidance of my team, I had quickly adapted and helped create a valuable learning tool for our clients. Knowing that this course would directly help refugees understand life in the UK and prepare for their future made it an incredibly rewarding experience.
Like any new role, there were some challenges. Language barriers were one of the first obstacles I encountered. Many of the clients had low levels of English proficiency, which sometimes made communication difficult. To overcome this, I adapted by using simpler language, visual aids, and translation tools. Another challenge was building trust with the clients. Many of them had been through difficult journeys, and it took time for them to feel comfortable seeking support. I focused on building relationships by providing consistent one-to-one assistance, whether it was helping them write CVs, apply for jobs, or navigate online learning. Over time, I saw their confidence grow, which was one of the most fulfilling aspects of my role.
One of the best parts of my experience at ACH has been the supportive team. From Sarah to Dubem and many others, I have been surrounded by people, who are not only knowledgeable but also genuinely committed to making a difference. Their mentorship, encouragement, and teamwork have played a huge role in my development.
Looking back, I realise growth comes from stepping out of your comfort zone. As I reflect on my time at ACH, one lesson stands out: “Don’t be afraid to take on challenges, ask for support, and believe in your ability to adapt and grow.”
50 days of my experience has given me more than just technical skills – they have given me perspective. I have learned not only how to teach and develop resources but to connect with people, understand their struggles, and play a valuable role in their journey toward a better future. Initially I saw myself on one career path, but this experience has shown me that my skills can be applied in many ways. I now feel more confident, capable, and excited about the opportunities ahead.
To anyone considering a similar role, my advice is simple: Be open to learning, embrace challenges, and do not hesitate to ask for support. You will grow in ways you never expect. And for that I will always be grateful to ACH.
