Maria was an intern for Rose Park Neighborhood Center during Fall 2024.
Briefly explain what you did and the result of your internship.
During my internship at the Rose Park Neighborhood Center (RPNC), I supported the local community by assisting individuals and families with various social services. I helped clients navigate housing assistance programs, connect with food pantries, and access resources for utility assistance. I collaborated with staff to organize workshops and events that promoted community engagement and empowerment. Additionally, I provided bilingual support to Spanish-speaking clients, ensuring they fully understood and utilized the resources available to them. This experience allowed me to develop strong interpersonal skills, cultural competence, and a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by underserved communities.
What did you learn in your internship that you were not expecting to learn?
That I would like to work in structured companies rather than non-profits.
How have your future plans changed because of what you learned from your internship experience?
My experience at the RPNC has encouraged me to pursue a Master of Social Work.
Please share how your experience led to personal inspiration or insightful revelation.
At the Rose Park Neighborhood Center, I gained a profound appreciation for the resilience and strength of underserved communities. Hearing the personal stories of clients striving to overcome barriers inspired me to approach social work with empathy and a solutions-oriented mindset. Witnessing the positive impact of accessible resources and compassionate guidance reinforced my belief in the importance of advocacy and community support. This experience deepened my commitment to helping individuals achieve stability and independence, motivating me to pursue a career in social work.
Would you recommend this internship to other students?
It's great if you would like to do community service and want to become a social worker or therapist.