What I liked
This summer, I interned with Fundación Paraguaya in Asunción. My first day on the job, my manager explained that I would be responsible for a full-scale evaluation of their extensive microfranchise program of seven business models and over 3,500 franchisees. I was left to structure what information I would need, how to gather it, and what suggestions to give the Foundation. I faced cultural differences and challenges with the indigenous language (on top of speaking Spanish). Despite these obstacles, I compiled complex data to create a 28-page report that analyzed the microfranchises’ strengths and weaknesses and recommended improvements to the program. Along with this responsibility, I managed relationships with my manager and co-workers and improved the Foundation’s distribution, client support, and impact measurement practices. I loved developing interpersonal and problem-solving skills that help me tackle challenges in a tenacious, organized, and efficient way.