Lilly Bolandrina (CAS ’24) participated in her internship during the summer of 2023 at Iskwelahang Pilipino, in Bedford, Massachusetts.
How did you learn about this internship opportunity? What career resources from BU or elsewhere did you use during the application and interview process?
I reached out to the executive director of the non-profit and asked to help support their work, then they offered me an intern position! I attended BU’s non-profit career fair; however, did not find this opportunity through that event. During the application and interview process, I used VMock and notes I took from attending a BU internship panel earlier in the year.
Why did you choose to apply for this particular internship?
I chose to apply for this particular internship because I wanted to support the Filipino and Filipino-American community within Massachusetts, learn more about non-profit management, and expand my community-building and marketing skills. Additionally, I have an interest in working with children, which I was able to further experience in this internship.
What were your job responsibilities as an intern?*
My responsibilities include: Managing Iskwelahang Pilipino’s online presence to increase visibility and enhance the school’s approach to social media marketing. Support summer activities, such as fundraisers, education programs, community outreach, dance performances, music performances, and rehearsals. Prepare content and activities for the 2023-2024 school year – Assist in teaching lessons.
What was the most rewarding part of your internship?
The most rewarding part of my internship is helping children learn about the Philippines. Cultural preservation is important to me and my family, so I am extremely honored to help share and preserve aspects of Filipino culture. Additionally, I love seeing children try new things and have fun exploring parts of the world they were previously unfamiliar with! It was extremely fun to work with children by teaching them about traditional Filipino dance and fashion!
What skills, technical or soft, did you develop during your internship?
During my internship, I further developed my marketing, communication, community building, public speaking, and event planning skills.
What advice would you give to another student about making the most of an internship, job, or other career-related experience?
To make the most out of a career-related experience, I would say that it is important to be eager to seize new opportunities and ask for them if they are not offered to you. Although it is daunting to ask people of different backgrounds and positions for opportunities, vocalizing any interest in particular activities and subjects is crucial in gaining chances to participate in new things.
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