The words “PAID INTERNSHIP” on the bulletin board announcement called my attention.  My school’s student employment office was promoting a HACU National Internship Program informational session.  My first thought was that my weak English skills would hold me back [from pursuing a HACU internship] but that anxiety vanished with the support of my college mentor. 

While I did not get selected to participate the first time I applied, for the summer 2000 program, I reapplied for the spring 2001 program and was selected by the Food and Drug Administration.  [I ultimately interned with the FDA] a total of five times during college and even had the opportunity to present preliminary findings of an ongoing research project at the American Society of Microbiology.

After my graduation in the summer 2004, I participated in my sixth and final HACU internship with USDA.  Soon after [the internship ended], I began working as a staff member with the HACU National Internship Program.  After two years of hard work, I was able to get the position I hold today at the U.S. Department of State, examining US passport applications.  I can say is that I might not be where I am today if it wasn't for the HACU National Internship Program.  

Josue Trinidad-Perez
Internship at USDA - Agricultural Research Service
From 1/14/2004 to 8/20/2008

< Back