Daniel Barber '22

Skills:

In this experience, I grew the most in my competencies of communication and critical thinking. My role called for me to share various types of information with a number of different audiences, and to make choices on how to do so as effectively as possible. For example, the way I would share statistical reports with my supervisor was different from how I would provide instructions to teenage program coordinators, or pose questions to 10-year-old participants. Considering my audience and method of communicating with them allowed me to collaborate successfully. Critical thinking was also very important to my position with the DYO. When considering a large amount of data, I made decisions about what information would be most useful in describing what we do. This kind of thinking informed the things I emphasized in summary reports and the kinds of questions I would recommend be given to participants in surveys. I exercised my critical thinking skills in the designing of feedback collection methods as well. One of my favorite aspects of my role was brainstorming with my team to develop activities, games, and projects that would tell us about participants’ experiences with the DYO in a more interesting way than filling out a form.

Future Career Goals:

Working with the DYO has given me some helpful insight into public service careers. My data and evaluation role was a great way to apply the skills I gained in my Economics coursework while giving back to my community. I have long considered a career in government, and this internship introduced me to one way I could contribute my skills in doing so. I had the opportunity to meet a number of people in the Worcester Department of Public Health, and I got to know the structure of that organization better.

Advice to HC Students:

I would recommend that when my fellow students seek out internships or career opportunities, they follow a path that means something to them rather than simply applying for what seems competitive or what would look best on a resume. I have always been passionate about making a difference in the lives of young people, and I believe that the opportunity to continue doing so has allowed me to be more engaged and greatly enjoy my work with this internship.