I was instantly sold. I filled out the application over a course of a few weeks and gathered the recommendations needed. After I was sure my application was good to go, I hit the submit button and awaited my destiny with the program. I was hoping that I would be one of the five students selected from Chicago.
Four months later, my senior year was winding down. I had finished my final examinations and June was creeping closer. One May evening, I was sitting on my couch watching “Two and a Half Men” when I received a call from the Bank of America. I instantly froze. “I wonder if they call to give rejections,” I thought.
I answered hesitantly and was greeted by a voice that said, “Congratulations Lynda, you have been chosen as a 2010 Bank of America Student Leader. You will receive further details in the mail.”
One month later, I started my job at the Boys and Girls Club of Chicago. Two other students from Chicago were working at other Boys and Girls Clubs throughout the city. The remaining two were placed at the YMCA.
Granted, at first I was terrified of working with kids and being impatient, but it was truly a rewarding experience. My first day was definitely an adjustment for me, but I felt relatively comfortable in the environment. Now, five weeks into my internship, I am truly thriving and feeling better than ever.
The kids respect me for the most part. I have made long-lasting friends. The fact that I'm getting paid has definitely made me more responsible as a young adult. Thanks to this internship, I feel better equipped to budget for college.
Arguably the best part of the internship, the trip to Washington from July 18 to July 23, was beyond amazing. It was truly transformative and life-changing. Throughout the week, the 230 student leaders from across the country learned about government, non-profits, and businesses. It was an educational experience but it was also a place where I was able to gain dozens of new friends.
Getting to know the amazing students that were a part of the summit was the most impactful part of the trip. Every student had a passion and intelligence that surpassed words. As my mom once said, “The more people you know, the smarter you are.” After meeting all these special students, I felt as if my head was bursting with knowledge.
Overall, applying to the Bank of America Student Leaders Program was the best decision I could have made for the summer before college. I'm ready to go to college and show everyone what I'm made of. Thanks to this program, I have found my voice in society.
Lynda Lopez, Prosser alum
