This summer, I had the incredible opportunity to manage a rising senior in the Oakland school system, Laura*. Laura is part of Oakland’s College Track program which is designed to provide a path for low-income students to attend a four-year university.  

When I first met Laura, she shared with me many of her fears, hopes, and insecurities.  The memories of being a high school senior flooded back – Am I going to get into my dream school? What should my major be? Or maybe just wondering who you’re going to the movies with this weekend.

I expected that she would grow in talent, confidence, and maturity over the summer, but I did not expect that I would grow with her.  Here are the top 3 lesson I learned:

1. Be Gracious, Always

When’s the last time you thanked your manager for giving you a new project or assignment?  Have you thought recently about how fortunate you are to work where or with who you do?

Laura constantly thanked me for opportunities and showed appreciation in small details that I often overlook, like how stunning our office views are or the fact that some of us eat out for lunch.  Her kind, gracious spirit triggered a reaction in me.  I became more appreciative for all that I have, the opportunities my manager presents to me, and the brilliant, caring people who surround me each day. 

2. Show Compassion

Do you take time to consider what’s weighing on your colleagues and how it may be impacting their work?

As we got to know each other better, Laura began to share some more personal feelings.  The kinds of feelings that most of us keep quiet from our co-workers, but aren’t unique to high schoolers, particularly doubts and fears. When she confided in me, she made me realize that some of my other co-workers may also be limited by doubt or shy away from opportunity out of fear.  I learned that showing compassion, encouraging others, and thinking outside the task at hand can create a more positive environment for everyone. 

3. Keep it Simple

Would a high schooler understand your last email?

We’re all guilty of throwing around corporate jargon and acronyms.  When speaking with Laura, I thought carefully about the best way to communicate so that she would understand exactly what she needed to do.  My requests were much clearer, which helped me understand the problem deeper and derive better solutions. 

After just 6 short weeks, the shy, quiet girl who walked into our office presented about her internship to over 20 people.  She spoke with her head high, louder than before, and a smile that radiated confidence.  The shakiness once heard in her voice was now as strong as the July sun.  It was evident that she was proud of her work and her accomplishments.

If her transformation wasn’t rewarding enough, she said that she is 10x more focused on her studies and more motivated than ever to go to college.  That is more valuable to me than any summer vacation (but you can still take your summer vacation!).

Without knowing it, Laura taught me how to be a better colleague and a better manager.  What could a high school intern teach you?

*Name has been changed for privacy