A Day in the Life: The Intern’s Perspective

By Toya, Human Services Intern, Goodwin University Intern

If there’s one thing this internship continues to show me, it’s how unpredictable, adventurous, and rewarding this field truly is. Recently, I had the chance to accompany Michelle, UR Community Cares, Executive Director and my internship host, on a full day of outreach that took us from one senior center to another—each stop offering fresh lessons and unforgettable insights.

We started our day at the Bloomfield Senior Center, where I had the unique opportunity to witness Michelle in action, negotiating organizational programming funded by grants she’s worked hard to secure. Listening to her conversation with Yvette, the Bloomfield Senior Center Director, was inspiring. It gave me a behind-the-scenes look at how ideas are brought to life from both perspectives: Yvette, knowing her residents best, expressing what would truly benefit them, and Michelle, responding with flexibility while staying true to the core values and resources our organization can provide. Watching them collaborate so openly was a reminder of just how much intentional dialogue goes into creating programs that actually serve people well.

The tour at Bloomfield was also a treat—it felt like stepping into a beautiful retirement campus, with so many activities and offerings that both Michelle and I were genuinely in awe. Seeing a space so alive with opportunity made me even more excited about the future possibilities of starting my own organization one day.

Then it was off to the Manchester Senior Center, where our day shifted into active outreach mode. We set up during their lunch hour to share information about the services UR Community Cares offers. It was such a pleasant experience connecting with new faces, re-engaging with past clients who were excited to sign back up, and simply watching people light up with curiosity or gratitude. It reinforced how important it is to get out from behind a desk—to network, show face, and make sure our name is ringing as many bells as possible. Some seniors were bubbly and eager, others more reserved, but every interaction added to the richness of the day.

In between all this, Michelle handled an online meeting right from her car—a cozy little Subaru command center that made me laugh at how seamlessly she switched between in-person sessions and digital calls. Even dealing with connectivity hiccups, she kept the day flowing, showing me what adaptability truly looks like.

We paused for lunch to decompress and share some much-needed laughter.
Honestly, Michelle is one of the most down-to-earth leaders I’ve ever met—easy to talk to, incredibly understanding, and genuinely invested in the people around her. Being able to learn from someone like that, especially as someone who dreams of building their own nonprofit in the future, is invaluable.

Later, back in Manchester, Michelle also connected with Maria Cruz, who oversees cultural programming for Spanish communities (particularly around Hispanic Heritage Month—where we discussed ideas for the upcoming Salsa of Manchester event). Watching Michelle gather Maria’s perspective and incorporate her feedback so gracefully was another reminder that great leadership is as much about listening as it is about offering. Leadership is as much about listening as it is about offering.

Why It Matters to Me

From my perspective as an intern—and honestly, a future hopeful director—these experiences aren’t just field hours. They’re live-action blueprints for how to run an organization with integrity, heart, and genuine adaptability. I left the day not just inspired, but more determined than ever to one day turn my own vision into reality.

Michelle’s ability to pivot, collaborate, and keep everything centered on client needs is exactly the kind of model I hope to follow. Days like this confirm that I’m on the right path—and that even the most unpredictable schedules can lead to the most meaningful growth.

Inspiration comes in all different forms,

Toya