Three Things I Learned At My Summer Internship at Big Brothers Big Sisters Twin Cities
August 16, 2023, Samreen Saadi
This blog post is part of our Staff Spotlight Series and was written by Shary Brown, a Community Engagement & Volunteer Recruitment intern at Big Brothers Big Sisters Twin Cities (Summer 2023).
Growing up I was always unsure of what I wanted to do for a career, although I have always been a helpful hand to others in need no matter the situation. When choosing my internship, I knew I wanted to be someplace where my values were shared and where I could feel comfortable in the workplace. Choosing Big Brothers Big Sisters Twin Cities (BBBSTC) as my internship was made on the decision of the work and values that the agency honors.
BBBSTC is an organization that focuses on youth mentoring where both Littles and Bigs can benefit from spending time together.
Sometimes, you cannot do everything alone. Having someone who understands you and values similar things can elevate one’s personality in many beautiful ways.
When taking my first step into BBBSTC, I felt warm and welcomed. The understanding from the staff is amazing. I am very excited to have Sandi Richmond, Director of Community Engagement & Volunteer Recruitment, as a leader to guide me throughout this journey. I am at home when I’m in this environment. Being here does not feel like work; it feels like a priority to come in and do great things, and see others do great things too. I am so excited to grow and gain professionalism and knowledge from my peers around me. So far, I have had the opportunity to be a part of tabling events, engagement and connections committee meetings, join planning meetings, and many more exciting opportunities to come.
The three things I learned during my Community Engagement & Volunteer Recruitment internship are:
- The importance of networking, and connecting with people and communities to make an impact together.
- Take the time to map out, break down, and piece information back together to understand tactics, perspectives, and logistics, as well aligning it all back to goals.
- The significance of one person’s intention can impact the next person’s outcome with the smallest action.
Through my internship, I have even overcome an obstacle of feeling like I do not belong. BBBSTC staff did not fail to make it known that I am welcomed, accepted, and I belong! I want to give a big thank you to BBBSTC for giving me the opportunity to show how bright I can shine and giving me a chance to show the amazing things I can do to help ignite the power and promise of youth in the Twin Cities.
Three interesting facts about me:
- I am a member of Phi Theta Kappa Society.
- I was a valedictorian of my high school senior class of 2022.
- I’m very intuitive.
A piece of wisdom or advice I would impart to young people like me:
I’d say, focus on books and the other stuff will come later. This kept me in the right mindset to do great, and helped me focus on what truly matters to me. Set priorities and commit to them!
Interested in joining our mission as an intern or employee? Check out the latest career opportunities at Big Brothers Big Sisters Twin Cities.
