I absolutely loved being a Youth Employment intern at United Way of Northeast Florida. It was a great feeling to know that other youth like myself had something positive to do this summer.

This year, I worked closely with Ms. Mack, youth employment manager. I’ve gained background knowledge on how to get the program up and running. It was a great experience not only because we hire youth and find them paid internships, but also because we make sure that they are not excluded from having a magnificent summer internship. Working behind the scenes has been the greatest part of my experience by far.

Last year, I interned with United Way in Major Gifts, and I know that I’ve grown from last year. I am more understanding and knowledgeable. I’ve learned patience because I’m helping other interns learn our program processes. I shared with other interns the importance of reading and responding to Youth Employment correspondence, like emails filled with important information and how to properly complete time sheets.

On a daily basis, I am always busy. I rarely sit at my desk because I’m making copies, taking phone calls, giving out bus passes, or at my supervisor’s desk assisting her with answering the phone so we won’t miss any important calls.

Another part of my job was to be a liaison to other interns in the program. I made sure they were provided with internship information, such as work schedule, internship site, the name of their employer coach and youth development specialist, etc. My internship was fulfilling. Each week, we received phone calls and emails from other interns expressing how thankful they were to have an internship and how much they enjoyed working. At the end of the day, this job was rewarding because of all the hard work we put into it. We’re still giving back. It’s the small things that count.