(FLOC welcomes new staff each summer. In this miniseries, we are recognizing our summer associates and interns by publishing blog posts about their experiences. Brenda Balcarcel is the Community Resource Assistant.)
Q: Where are you from?
I’m from Washington, DC.
Q: Where do you go to school and what do you study?
I’m a rising senior at Mount St. Mary’s University. I’m a Spanish major with a minor in Education.
Q: How long have you been involved with FLOC and in what capacity?
I started as a tenth grader in the College Prep program. I’m still a Scholar and this summer I’m working for FLOC.
Q: What do you do as the Community Resource Assistant?
I’m going to be creating an electronic referral guide for FLOC to use, including health services and other educational services that FLOC doesn’t provide. After interviewing staff, I made a list of the needs that were most common. My job is to research and find organizations that meet those needs and then organize a concrete list of organizations to be able to refer families.
Q: What have you learned while working here?
I’ve learned a lot about the services that DC provides for families. I’m also getting more professional work experience, which is something I was really looking forward to.
Q: What’s your favorite thing about working here?
The staff. I think everyone is really friendly and supportive. I don’t feel scared to ask anyone for help.
Q: What are your plans after college?
I either want to pursue a Master’s Degree in Early Childhood Education or work at an educational organization.
