Divya Annamalai

Divya Annamalai

School: UAB Heersink School of Medicine

Academic Mentor: Dr. Meredith Gartin

Site Mentor: Matt Butler

Site: Alabama Interfaith Refugee Partnership (ALIRP)

Divya partnered with the Alabama Interfaith Refugee Partnership (ALIRP) to increase awareness, confidence, and access to post-secondary education and career pathways among refugee and immigrant populations. She organized and facilitated workshops on GED programs, community college, workforce training, and financial aid navigation. Divya also conducted outreach through ESL classes and community events, and developed bilingual resources to support participants. Through these efforts, families gained a clearer understanding of available opportunities and how to pursue them, while building stronger connections with local support organizations.

Project Results

  • Partnered with 3+ community organizations (Jefferson State Community College, HICA, Alabama Possible, MPOWER) to provide presentations and resources
  • Conducted 2 educational workshops on post-secondary pathways and financial aid navigation
  • Developed and distributed bilingual (English/Spanish) educational materials, including flyers and resource guides
  • Reached 20+ individuals through ESL class outreach and tabling efforts
  • Increased participant understanding of post-secondary options and financial aid processes (based on informal feedback and engagement)