On my third day of navigating around the sometimes-overwhelming city of Washington D.C., I began my summer internship at First Book. Having heard nothing but positive remarks about the organization and its mission, I enter the office excited and curious to begin my experience here.

I am working within the Community Development department and my responsibilities up to this point have included helping to organize grant applications, updating Advisory Board databases, compiling packets for graduates of Campus Advisory Boards, various research projects, and revamping the First Book item order form. I have also been given the opportunity to apply some of my previous experience and help enhance First Book’s presence in the online community through YouTube videos and other marketing techniques. I appreciate the sincere and welcoming response I have been given, the opportunity to work on substantial projects, and not to mention, there is never a boring moment with James as my supervisor and “mentor”.

Now into my third week as part of the First Book family, I look forward to each new day and the learning opportunities yet to come. The summer program I am currently enrolled in through Georgetown coincides with my internship and is educating me on the value of philanthropy and the nonprofit sector. First Book has served as an ideal internship site for me to apply this education and my previous experience, to continually gain direct knowledge about nonprofit organizations, and to spark my creativity. Most importantly, the organization has further cultivated my passion for working in the nonprofit sector. I would describe it as an inspiring and positive work environment that is driven by individuals whose genuine passion for placing books into the hands of children is felt in everything they do. It is refreshing to enter such an atmosphere each morning; and in a city filled with thousands of other things to see and do, it is making quite an impression. Thanks to everyone who has contributed to making my Fist Book experience an amazing one so far!