An Internship Experience at the Ronald McDonald House

                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.