A First Step Toward Professional Growth by Les Vasquez, Digital Scholars 2025

My summer internship touched on website auditing. I worked for the UW Bothell Division of
Academic Affairs in their executive office. The internship was hybrid, twice a week, and I worked
in an environment where my supervisor and peers were available at all times. What drew me to
the Digital Scholars program was the free opportunity it gave to current students. As a first
generation student, I was having a hard time putting myself in areas where I can academically
support my goals.

After finding out about this program through flyers around campus, I was very
amazed at the existence of this opportunity. Being a part of this program was an amazing
experience. It helped educate me further with the digital world and additionally, how to prepare
into the professional world.

I have learned that there was confidence and respect given to us right from the beginning. It
was a significant point as interns, receiving professional integrity from the start. It was also a
learning curve, understanding that we were working as employers of the University rather solely
as students. Regarding our schedules, it was also an amazing opportunity to navigate through a
hybrid schedule. This internship gave me a better understanding on how to set up
responsibilities at home in order to focus and maintain integrity outside of a traditional
workspace. My supervisor was in-depth with how to audit the website and how to ensure
efficiency.

The most challenging part of the internship was the tasks themselves. It was a very new
experience for me to be auditing a website. There were specific steps that my supervisor
wanted to see and it was challenging because it was new. And I really enjoyed the novelty
because it opened up an opportunity for growth within myself.

The rewarding part of my internship was knowing that my work will make a difference. When
I reflect back, I am proud for serving my community and giving back. It was amazing to be given
a role that will impact current and future students in a positive way. Looking back at my growth, I
have learned so much about what it takes to succeed in a professional setting. To say, I came
into the program alone, but have come out with mentors and peers.

For future Digital Scholars, this is an amazing opportunity to take. Take as many opportunities
out there that UW Bothell provides. It can be overwhelming, but that first step of action will lead
to amazing outcomes. There is no better feeling than to feel a part of a community. Everyone
will help you along the way, and it is such a great transition into getting a feel for the
professional world.

As for advice to supervisors and program staff, I would recommend more ice-breakers during
summer meetings or a time where we get to do interactive activities that foster more teamwork
and collaboration. I have interacted with each member at least once throughout the program.
Unfortunately, there are still members that I wish I could have interacted with further

Learn more about the Digital Scholars program at UW Bothell.