“I like new experiences and learning new things,” stated San Diego Job Corps student Viridiana Meza.  “When my instructor told me about the opportunity to intern with San Diego Congresswoman Susan Davis, I was really excited.  I’m so glad I pursued it. I learned so much and loved the day I spent at her office.”

Ms. Meza was chosen to take part in the first-ever National Mentor a Job Corps Student Day, sponsored by the Friends of Job Corps Congressional Caucus.  The Job Corps Caucus was established in 2006 to heighten the awareness and appreciation for Job Corps among policy makers, Administration decision-makers and the broader public. The Caucus has helped establish a voice for Job Corps on Capitol Hill communicating the role Job Corps plays in the socio-economic well-being of local communities and the nation.

The one-day internship was designed to expose Job Corps students to the inner-workings of a congressional district office.  “I didn’t know much about how a Congressional office operates, but I had the opportunity to work with five different staff members and learn what each of them does,” Ms. Meza stated.  “Being Student Government Association president, and our delegation of responsibilities, helped me understand the different areas of responsibility in Congresswoman Davis’ office.  During the day I learned about housing and administrative aid, along with veterans and immigration issues.  I was impressed at how resourceful all of these people are.”

“I love helping people,” Ms. Meza stated. “I was involved in helping others before enrolling at the Job Corps Center and have done a lot of community service on and off our center. Besides being nice and professional, I could see how all of the staff members in the office loved their job and helping people.”

“Other Job Corps students have been interns in the office for longer periods of time,” Ms. Meza added.  “Perhaps they might consider me for an internship. Maybe some day I might even work there,” she smiled. “That would be a great job!”