I loved teaching cooking classes and observing how to run a teaching kitchen. Lesson planning was really fun and it was easy to collaborate with our lead instructor and the other teachers. Being invited to work with community nutrition outreach was truly life-changing. I got to connect with a diverse group of vulnerable populations in the Grand Rapids community. Marrying nutrition, social justice, and Spanish was the perfect use of my interests and skills.
What I wish was different
My schedule felt a little brutal. I had a long commute and would work at the office in the mornings before going to an afternoon outreach event three days per week. Working like this on top of taking 3 online classes was not ideal but wasn't unmanageable, either.
Advice
The YMCA is a wonderful organization and the entire staff was welcoming even though I was only there for eight weeks. Connect with as many employees as possible and enjoy the community. Welcome new projects and assignments because you never know what you might enjoy working on!
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One person found this helpful
Lifeguard
May 2019 • Grandville, MI
What I liked
The community of other life guards was really great, and the management staff were super helpful in navigating time off and new hire trainings.
What I wish was different
I had to work the opening shift (4:30am) and evening though I got a pay bonus for working that shift, it would’ve been nice to not have to.
Advice
Lifeguarding is more exhausting than you would think. It may seem like just sitting by the pool all day, but really you have to be super vigilant in scanning and emergency prevention.
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Day Camp Counselor
June - August 2019 • Plainfield Township, MI
What I liked
I’ve been at this job for 3 summers now, and the campers are usually mostly the same from summer to summer, and it’s fun to see some of the same faces each year, along with new ones.
What I wish was different
Advice
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Program coordinator
May - August 2019 • Grand Rapids, MI
What I liked
The culture of the Y is incredible! Everyone there makes you a better person, and worker. The members are great the employees, I couldn't have asked for a better experience! They are flexible, and they make the experience enjoyable! And you do great things with great people and build fantastic relationships and connections
What I wish was different
Nothing, I had one of the best summer experiences I have ever had.
Advice
If you are looking for an internship, this is the place! Or even full time, there are tons of great opportunities here!
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Day Camp Counselor
June - August 2019 • Grand Rapids, MI
What I liked
I loved the opportunity to interact with the kids and better learn how to help them grow and mature.
What I wish was different
I wish there would have been more structure to the days.
Advice
When you're there, go all in. It is so much better for you and the kids if you commit yourself, 100%, to the experience.
