From an intern working at  Jamboree Housing Corporation:

Jamboree Housing Corporation builds affordable housing for low-income families. We are a non-profit organization and have to find funding for all of the projects we take on. We must also coordinate with general contractors, architects, engineers, and city officials. 

My internship at Jamboree Housing Corporation has been an extremely valuable experience.  The wide range of work exposes me to many different aspects of housing development. Not only I have learned  much about (and developed an interest in) affordable housing and redevelopment, but I have also gained important insight into workplace dynamics and professionalism.  I truly enjoy my work environment; my manager and co-workers are friendly and always willing to help, the material is interesting, and the job is ultimately very rewarding.   For instance, we often visit construction sites and it is great to physically see the projects being completed one step at a time. When potential renters of the soon-to-be completed apartments come into the office, it is wonderful to see the faces of the people who benefit from our efforts. Knowing that I play a part in helping lower income families find a place to call home is an amazing feeling.

Throughout my internship, I have seen my Humanities skills carry over into a very non-Humanities field such as housing development.  Communication is key not just at Jamboree, but in any office. Being able to communicate clearly is crucial.  My e-mails to city officials, property managers, and my own co-workers need be clear and concise.  Whenever I evaluate a prospective project or score a potential site for funding points, I need to think critically to determine if the project is worth continuing. Futher I have learned how to handle myself in meetings, prioritize assignments under pressure, and gained a basic understanding of the nuances of office protocol.

All of this would not have been possible without the Humanities Internship Program.  The program is a valuable resource to students, and I cannot stress how beneficial it has been to me.  It helped me find my first real job, from which I have built the confidence and gathered the experience to move forward in exploring my career options.  I would encourage all Humanities undergraduates to take advantage of this great opportunity.  The program has already done half of the work in finding quality employers offering internships; you just need to apply!