Paulina Martin '21

1) What are some skills/competencies (NACE) that you developed during your internship?

I developed an ability to work in a team virtually, a new skill that I believe will be helpful in the current job market. I also continued to develop my communication and problem-solving abilities. The work I did was often time-sensitive and important, if I didn’t complete the task, a family may go without food. This invited me to think deeply and work hard about how to solve the crisis at hand.

2) How does this experience connect to your future career goals?

I spent last semester in Washington, D.C. interning with Senator Elizabeth Warren and came out of the experience sure that I wanted to work in politics. While I still think that’s the case, my involvement with the United Way has given me a new appreciation for politics and government at a local level. I think I would love, and perhaps even be more fulfilled by, city or municipal work. I am so grateful to have this additional perspective and to have discovered this passion for serving smaller communities.

3) What advice would you give to other Holy Cross students?

With a virtual experience, I noticed that I had to take a lot more initiative. Since my face isn’t just around the office, people sometimes forget I am a resource. I would advise remote students who are interning or working remotely to demonstrate their eagerness and availability to take on projects and propose work for yourself to do if things are slow. Any organization will appreciate an intern who can be independently helpful.