Mikaela Zamora educated prospective students and families about University of Arizona’s SALT Center supports student success.
How did you get your internship and why did you choose this opportunity?
I was actually on a job hunt my junior year, and was told that the University of Arizona’s SALT (Strategic, Alternative, Learning Techniques) Center was hiring and looking for ambassadors, office assistants, and receptionists. I was a pretty active student that spent a fair amount of my time at the SALT Center and decided that it could be a good fit for me. I applied, had an interview, found out I was qualified for the position, and was hired!
I chose this internship because I knew from my previous experience with SALT Center that I was going to be doing meaningful work that made me feel something in my soul. I knew I would be doing something to make a difference in others lives, which makes me really happy. I also felt like this specific internship was going to give me some networking opportunities and it definitely did! I have already had the opportunity to network with parents and alumni who are currently working in the fashion industry.
What kind of work did you do throughout your internship experience?
As an ambassador at the SALT Center I led and spoke at events called “Taste of SALT.” Families and students come in and listen to a presentation that provides an overview about what the SALT Center has to offer, and they would also listen to my personal experiences and stories as a student and how it has changed my life for the better. I did other events such as orientation events where I would sit at a table representing the SALT Center and answer questions from students and parents. I also did calling campaigns where I would call prospective new students advising them to complete their applications. These responsibilities, over the course of my year-long internship, helped me develop my public speaking and storytelling skills, communication skills, collaboration skills, and my problem solving skills.
What is unique about your situation that influenced your internship experience?
I personally use the services at SALT Center and am able to share my experience during information sessions. By telling my story about my journey with school to other incoming students and families it could give them some true insight into what college is like. I wanted to inspire other students to take a chance, face their fears, and do college despite their learning challenges.
What was the most satisfying part of your internship?
The most satisfying part of my internship was definitely being able to relate and educate high school students that have felt the same way that I used to feel (out of place, dumb, unsuccessful, hopeless) and let them know that everything turned out just beautifully thanks to the SALT Center. Four years ago when I was extremely stressed out about going to college, I wish I had someone to tell me the same things I tell them: that it's okay to ask for help, that everyone learns completely differently, and that doesn't mean you won't be successful in your life. Your experience is what you make of it!
How was the internship related to your Applied Humanities degree?
From my perspective, the Applied Humanities degree is about connecting with and understanding people. I felt extremely connected to the people I made relationships with during my internship when telling them my personal stories of how I succeeded because of the SALT Center. I also got to experience what it is like to have a job that requires a lot of different skills that I want for my future career.