Rachel Math

Responsibilities

During my internship, I was able to engage in conversation with guests to understand needs and answer questions, update databases with new and modified customer data, welcome families, assist with check-in procedures, make families feel at home, help with House operations and upkeep, and facilitate intake and documentation of donations.

Accomplishments

During my internship, my greatest accomplishment is having the opportunity to continue as a full-time employee. Throughout my internship, I fell in love with the mission and families we served and was offered a full-time position. Initially, I didn't expect to find a full-time job after my internship, but everything fell into place, and it has been such an easy transition.

Learning experience

Some of my greatest lessons I learned at my internship include the diversity of families and getting to learn how family dynamics are so different from family to family. My biggest take-away is learning about trauma-informed care and understanding that the families we are serving are experiencing some level of trauma and they are looking to be close to their family, and seeking resources. It has been so sweet to see how rewarding this field is and seeing the families be so appreciative. I have learned a lot about responding to people too, and how to be patient and understanding when guests ask questions.

What advice would you give?

The advice I would give is to research your agency! It was so important to me that I believed in the mission and values that the agency I was interning in had. Enjoying what you will be doing for the semester is so important because it makes the experience so rewarding. I would also say to jump in and ask as many questions as possible. It shows that you are eager to learn, and taking the initiative shows leadership capabilities.