A
connection with the Ronald McDonald House was something Amanda found while
exploring options for an internship with a non-profit organization. “I was and am
really fond of the mission of the Ronald McDonald House,” Amanda comments,
desiring to gain applicable experience that furthers her studies in Human
Development and Family Studies beyond SDSU.
The time she is spending working for the Ronald McDonald House is of
value to Amanda in other ways as well, as she’s considering her options as far
as graduate work or future employment. “I
was looking for some ‘real life work’ to explore some of the options that I’m
considering,” Amanda shares.
The
timing of Amanda’s internship need was also a great fit for the house staff at
the Ronald McDonald House, as Sandy, House Manager, was planning her maternity
leave and was able to train Amanda to cover some of her daily tasks. In addition to these tasks, Amanda shadowed the house staff
to understand procedures and responsibilities that are involved in that
position. “I have about a month
remaining of my internship, and I’m finding that no two days have been the
same. My focus is adaptability and
knowing that I’ll learn something every day,” she says of the experience.
Amanda
feels her studies in Human Development and Family Studies have helped her think
critically about the needs of the families that are staying at the house. It brings to mind some of the ways a family
strengthens a child’s development, and she enjoys being a part of those
efforts. “As the families express their
appreciation for our efforts, it’s rewarding to hear,” says Amanda. Further, Amanda has a connection in her
internship to coordinating volunteers that want to come in, and through
community, the family unit is supported as well.
The
Ronald McDonald House Charities utilize interns on both the house management
and administrative needs. The value of an internship
includes learning the skills it takes to be successful on the job. By assessing
our work environment, interns leave with an increased awareness of the skills needed
for the future and develop the next step on their career path.
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