National Apprenticeship Week

Background Prior to Joining the Program

My experience as a college professor working with the SAC ECE Apprentice Program has been incredibly meaningful and rewarding. What stands out to me most is the opportunity to truly connect with my students beyond the classroom.

I’ve been able to watch them grow not just academically, but personally and professionally as they step into real early childhood settings. Seeing students apply what we discuss in class to their work with children is one of the most fulfilling parts of my role.

I remember moments when a student who was once unsure of themselves began confidently leading an activity or thoughtfully responding to a child’s needs. Those small but powerful moments remind me why this work matters.

Background Prior to Joining the Program

My name is Sarwerasa Rafizada, and my journey in academia began in Kabul, Afghanistan. Despite facing a forced five-year gap in my education due to the Taliban’s rule in the 1990s, I persevered and earned my Bachelor’s degree in Persian Literature from Kabul University in 2006.

I later moved to Iran to further my studies at Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, where I completed both my Master’s degree and PhD by 2015. Upon returning to Afghanistan, I dedicated seven years to teaching and research at the university level. However, following the fall of Kabul in 2021, I was forced to relocate once again, eventually arriving in the United States.

Since then, I have continued my academic contributions as a visiting researcher at UCI’s Jordan Center and, most recently, at UCLA’s Center for Near Eastern Studies as an adjunct professor.

The Apprenticeship and My Future Goals

My ultimate goal is to return to my roots as a professor at the college level here in the United States. I am committed to moving forward, using this apprenticeship as a foundation to share my knowledge and contribute meaningfully to the American academic community.

Achievements, Growth, and Future Goals

As a new arrival to the United States, I recognized the importance of integrating into my new community and understanding the local workforce. This motivated me to join the Child Development Apprenticeship Program in 2025.

My goal was not only to bridge the language barrier but also to expand my pedagogical skills within a new cultural context. Through this opportunity and continued dedication to this path, I have experienced significant personal and professional growth.

Despite the challenges of navigating a new language and educational system, I remain determined and confident in my ability to succeed.

Background Prior to Joining the Program

It has been a joy to be part of the Apprenticeship Program here at Santa Ana College. Watching these incredible students grow throughout their learning journey has been deeply rewarding. I have witnessed firsthand the confidence each student has gained. For example, one student told me that she is excited to see where her future of working with children will go. She is so hopeful and excited for the future a‑er being in the Apprenticeship Program. I am also inspired by their dedication as they balance college coursework with hands-on experience working alongside children, teachers, and parents. This apprenticeship opportunity allows them to build real world knowledge, develop practical skills, and gain a genuine passion for working with children in their chosen field. I love that not only are they seeing up for success, but they are also doing this with their peers! What a great way to learn and share this experience with others who have similar goals.

Background Prior to Joining the Program

Before joining the apprenticeship program, I was a stay-at-home mom taking care of my two-year-old son. I first heard about the program when I went to the career center with my husband while he was looking for a job. That’s when Desire told me about this wonderful opportunity. It has been the best choice for me and my family.

Experience Since Beginning the Program

One of my biggest achievements throughout the program was earning an intern position at SCC, which later led to a full-time job. This opportunity showed me how much I had grown both personally and professionally. Throughout the program, I developed important skills such as taking DRDP notes, observing children, planning activities based on individual needs, and managing a classroom. I also gained hands-on experience working with children from 6 months to 5 years old, which helped me build confidence and a deeper understanding of early childhood development. I have grown from being a stay-at-home mom to becoming a confident early childhood educator.

What Inspired Me to Pursue This Apprenticeship

I was motivated to join the program aer my first meeting with Director Deusenberry, when she explained what it was about since I didn’t know anything about it before. I liked that we would be taking classes while also getting hands-on experience working with children, because that was something new for me. I was also motivated by my son, who made me think more about child development and milestones and inspired me to learn more about early childhood education.

Achievements, Growth, and Future Goals

With the support of my mentors, directors, and colleagues, I was able to push myself and succeed. In the future, my goal is to become a preschool teacher. For now, my goal is to continue growing in the field of early childhood education and to make a positive difference in the lives of children and their familie