At AlphaBEST, we’re proud to support the next generation of educators and leaders. Meet Isabelle, who is completing her second consecutive summer internship with AlphaBEST. A rising junior at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Isabelle shares more about her journey into education, what she’s gained from her two summers with AlphaBEST, and the impact she hopes to make on students in the future. From helping launch new programs to seeing firsthand how after-school experiences enrich children’s lives, her story highlights the many paths available in education – and the power of curiosity along the way.
Q: Tell us a little about yourself, including your college major and career goals.
A: I am from Lexington, North Carolina, and I am a rising junior at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. I am studying Elementary Education with the hope of becoming a second-grade teacher. Long term, I would love to serve as a school principal or work in education policy.
Q: What sparked your interest in pursuing a career in education?
A: During my senior year of high school, I had the opportunity to intern in a second-grade classroom, and it was one of the most exciting experiences I have ever had. Every day, the students would come in and greet me with hugs and smiles. I was also fortunate to work under the supervision of one of my own elementary school teachers, which made the experience even more meaningful.
I want to work with children because they always keep me on my toes, and every day is a new adventure. I have also always loved learning. Growing up, I looked forward to going to school and discovering new things, especially alongside friends who shared my interests. I hope to spark that same excitement in future students and show them how fun learning can be.
Q: What attracted you to the opportunity to intern with AlphaBEST?
A: The opportunity to intern with AlphaBEST was exciting because I wanted to learn more about how educational programs operate behind the scenes. I first learned about the internship from someone familiar with AlphaBEST’s work, and the more I learned about the organization and its mission, the more interested I became. As students, we often only see the outcomes of educational programs and not all the work that goes into making them successful.
The internship also aligned perfectly with my interests in education and professional development. I was eager to gain firsthand experience in site setup and daily operations while learning how AlphaBEST creates positive, enriching experiences for students.
Q: What has been the most rewarding part of working with AlphaBEST?
A: One of the most rewarding experiences was traveling with Amanda Chambers, Director of Program Support, to New Jersey to help set up and host an open house for families in one of our new school districts. Before that trip, I had been helping prepare new site kits and open house materials that were sent to schools.
Meeting and interacting with the parents and children who would benefit from the program made all of that behind-the-scenes work feel incredibly meaningful. While much of the preparation happens out of sight, it truly makes a difference for parents, students, and on-site staff.
Q: Can you describe a memorable moment from your time at AlphaBEST?
A: I helped Amanda prepare for AlphaBEST’s 20th anniversary celebration. Special events were held at regional offices across the country, and many employees came together to make it happen.
We spent time folding shirts, packing cups, and preparing materials to send to celebration sites nationwide. What made the experience so memorable was seeing everyone willingly contribute their time and effort to support the celebration. It was inspiring to witness that level of teamwork and commitment.
Q: What skills have you developed during your time with AlphaBEST?
A: Two major skills I have developed are communication and organization.
I learned how to ask the right questions and collaborate with coworkers to find solutions when I encountered challenges. Rather than trying to figure everything out on my own, I became more confident reaching out to team members, which helped me learn more quickly and communicate more effectively.
I also developed stronger organizational skills by creating a system to track projects, deadlines, and materials throughout the busy school start-up season. Keeping detailed checklists and prioritizing tasks helped me ensure that the right materials were prepared, sent to the correct locations, and delivered on time. I learned that having a reliable organizational system is essential to keeping programs running smoothly and setting sites up for success.
Q: How has this experience helped prepare you for a future career in education?
A: This experience has helped me better understand how educational programs are organized and managed behind the scenes. It has also opened my eyes to the important role after-school programs play in a child’s development.
AlphaBEST has shown me that learning does not stop when the school day ends. Students continue learning, growing, and building important skills through after-school experiences. Because of this, I feel better prepared to understand all the pieces that contribute to a successful learning environment and how to support students both inside and outside the classroom.
Q: What impact do you hope to have on students as you continue your journey in education?
A: I want students to see that learning is fun. Learning is not always about sitting at a desk and completing a worksheet. It can happen through games, collaboration, creativity, and everyday experiences.
Learning has always brought me joy, and I hope to share that same joy with my future students so they can develop a lifelong love of learning.
Q: What is one lesson you’ll take from your time at AlphaBEST into your future career?
A: One lesson I will carry with me is AlphaBEST’s commitment to “Stand for the curious, and long may they explore!”
It is so important to encourage students to ask questions, explore their interests, and remain curious about the world around them. It is also a valuable reminder for educators about why we do this work in the first place – it is all for the children.
Q: Why do you think AlphaBEST is a great first job for someone interested in education?
A: AlphaBEST offers a variety of opportunities for people interested in education. You can work directly with children at program sites, or you can support programs behind the scenes while still making a meaningful impact on students’ lives.
It is a well-rounded organization that allows people to see education from multiple perspectives. For anyone considering a career in education, AlphaBEST provides valuable experience and a 360-degree view of how educational programs operate and support student success.
Interested in Making an Impact?
Whether you’re exploring a future career in education, looking for hands-on experience working with children, or interested in learning how educational programs operate behind the scenes, AlphaBEST offers opportunities to grow, learn, and make a difference. Join a team that believes in nurturing curiosity, supporting students, and creating meaningful experiences every day.
Explore career opportunities with AlphaBEST and discover how you can help inspire the next generation of learners. Learn more at www.alphabest.org/careers.
