Resident of the Month -> Petra Berrios

Interstate Realty
Management Co.

Computer Training Centers
Family of Neighborhood Networks


SUCCESS STORY

DATE: __4/30/08________ SITE: _Shirley Futch Plaza_____BY: _Sharlotte Giberson___


RESIDENT / PARTICIPANT NAME: _Petra Berrios

Reason(s) participant came to the Computer Training Center (what was his/her goal?)

Petra was getting pressure from her daughter to learn how to use the computer. Back in December of 2007 I started offering courses to residents who have never used the computer (see the February success stories). Petra started taking these courses faithfully, although she was very nervous and stated ‘she was scared’ of the computer.

Accomplishment(s) of the participant:
Petra has learned how to turn the computer off/on, navigate the Internet and has become diligent with email.


Obstacles he/she had to overcome:
I think part of Petra’s fear was a possible language barrier. Her native language is Spanish, although her English is just fine, she feels it is not. The biggest obstacle was learning to use the mouse and double-clicking icons.

What difference has participation in the Computer Training Center made for him/her?

Petra is so excited to come in and check her email. She has been communicating with her family and a very good friend in Florida. Previously she had been sending hand-written letters to her Florida friend but now they are able to communicate quickly and for free! Petra also enjoys reading the news and often can get the articles in Spanish - which she loves. I also feel a big difference the Computer Training Center has made in her life is her confidence. She takes every chance she can to come to the Computer room, socialize with others and play on the computer. She is no longer nervous or uncomfortable.