I worked at ExpandED Schools and I am overjoyed with my experience here. I worked as the Early Literacy Intern where I was able to audit all of the children’s books in the inventory and suggest additions for the afterschool curriculum. This task specifically granted me an agency in choosing relevant content for early education. I was allowed to add intersectional literature that simultaneously promoted social and emotional development. Additionally, I was able to lead informational recruitment sessions for the Ready Readers Afterschool programming participation, conduct outreach, and participate in developmental meetings. While supporting the Early Literacy Team I learned mass amounts of information about childhood cognitive development, curriculum building, lesson planning, funding sources, and nonprofit culture. Professionally, the opportunities for growth in ExpandED are vast and the information acquired is transferrable, however, the most rewarding aspect of the internship with ExpandED was the confidence I gained as well as the relationships I have built. I have a network of supporters and colleagues as a result of this opportunity provided to me by the Wilson Center.
What I wish was different
I would have loved to be in person!
Advice
Be open to learning and remember this is an educational and collaborative environment.
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One person found this helpful
Environmental Education/ Estuary Lab Intern at Hudson River Park Trust
June - August 2020 • New York City, NY
What I liked
I worked at Hudson River Park over the summer as an Environmental Education/ Estuary Lab intern funded by The Wilson Center. Given the pandemic I worked remotely and had the opportunity to go conduct field work 1-2x a week, which completed my entire experience here. I created new curriculum for their virtual programs and I was able to advance my skill sets, as I learned how to practice catch and release. Every staff member I worked with made sure I had all resources available, whether remotely or in the office. Tina, Olivia and Toland are passionate individuals who made my experience here one in which I will never forget as I truly was a part of their team. I feel confident to enter the workforce, with all the new skills I gained and the skills I was able to strengthen.
What I wish was different
If we were not in the middle of a pandemic, I would have preferred to work in the office instead of remotely.
Advice
1
One person found this helpful
Information Research Intern at College Money Matters
July - August 2020 • New York City, NY
What I liked
I liked that Nancy had a flexible schedule with me so I can work at different hours of the day. I loved learning what it takes to apply for money for a non-profit and learning how to write a grant proposal. I also liked learning how to look for specific organizations that will fund College Money Matters and learning how to specifically identify what each organization would fund.
What I wish was different
I don't wish anything was different.
Advice
1
One person found this helpful
Center for Employment Opportunities Special Projects Intern
June - August 2020 • New York City, NY
What I liked
I could not be happier with my experience. I was able to create an Inclusive Hiring Guide as part of CEO's dedication to creating the most inclusive workplace possible. I was also able to lead a workshop on Developing a Reflective Practice, write the featured article for the quarterly DEI Newsletter, and support the redesign of the company's onboarding process. While I learned many new skills, the best part of this internship was the confidence I gained in the skills I already had. I feel more confident than ever in all that I bring to the table and very prepared to enter the workforce.
What I wish was different
Advice
1
One person found this helpful
Marketing and Development Intern at MindLeaps
May - July 2019 • New York City, NY
What I liked
I worked at MindLeaps over the summer as the marketing and development intern funded by The Wilson Center. I had an amazing experience; every day was something different and exciting. Rebecca and Eleanor are the most hard working individuals I’ve ever met. Their passion and dedication to better the lives of children in developing countries is inspiring. I am so grateful I had the opportunity to work for such an amazing organization.
