Q&A with Amanda E. | Strategic Partnerships & Communications Department Intern at The Foundling
Internships present a great opportunity for students and young adults to learn about working at a nonprofit. This summer, a group of interns from across New York City had the chance to see our work in action, collaborate with staff and make a difference in the lives of the people and communities we serve. Each week this summer, we will highlight one of our interns, sharing what makes them special, and recognizing their accomplishments and achievements.
Where do you go to school?
I go to Horace Mann School in Riverdale in the Bronx. I’m going to be a senior in High School.
What is your favorite subject in school to study?
I really enjoy math, psychology and certain types of history. I think that getting to look at history through a specific lens and in one type of aspect is so interesting. I love math because I really like problem solving and I love how there is (usually) just one answer. I also think psychology is really cool because I think it is so interesting to look at how people’s minds work.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
I see myself definitely working in the field of public policy or advocacy. I would definitely love to work at organization like the New York Foundling and I would love to be able to say I made a huge positive impact on many people.
Who is your role model and why?
My mom has always been my role model. I’ve always really admired how she’s done such an amazing job of balancing working and her career and being around to raise her children. She’s also extremely caring and honest and has many admirable qualities.
What project did you work on while working at The Foundling?
I really loved being able to spend time with children at the Crisis Nursery and teens at the Haddad Brands event. I think that especially at the teen event, I was able to get to know some of the people in the Foundling’s programs and I am definitely proud of that. I also enjoyed gathering statistics about foster care and nutrition in the U.S. I am happy that I was able to contribute to raising awareness about very significant issues and getting others to know how they can help change the alarming data.
What will you take away from your experience at The Foundling?
I have definitely gained an understanding of how important every small project is and a sense of accomplishment. It’s a great feeling knowing that even though I am not necessarily seeing the people I am helping every day, my work has gone towards such an amazing cause. Every project benefits the Foundling, whether it is spreading awareness or collecting data, and I am very proud of that. I definitely think that I will take away a lot of organizational skills and also an emphasis on how important it is to communicate while doing projects.
What piece of advice would you tell future Foundling Interns?
I would definitely encourage future interns to always take the opportunity to go on “field trips” or do projects that are outside the department they are working in. It’s such a great opportunity to be able to explore other aspects of the Foundling and it’s always fun to get out of the office and experience something new. There are also so many amazing events and departments around the Foundling so it is definitely a unique experience to be able to be a part of them all.
What is your spirit animal and why?
I think that a kangaroo is my spirit animal. Female kangaroos are very protective of their young and carry them in pouches on their body. Although I don’t usually physically carry my friends and family, I think I’m very supportive and protective of them, just like a kangaroo.
If you could take a trip anywhere, where would you go and why?
Santorini, Greece. It’s relaxing, has beautiful beaches, and has a cool culture.
What is the last book you read, what are you reading now?
The last book I read was Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn and now I am reading another book by the same author, Dark Places. I initially wanted to read Gone Girl because I love mysteries and wanted to read the book before I saw the movie. It was such a good book and I love a shocking ending.
