Hey everyone, my name is Kayla and I’m the new youth advisor at the Center for Young Women’s Health  at Children’s Hospital Boston. Over the summer I worked in another program in the hospital known as COACH, which stands for: Career Opportunity Advancement at Children’s Hospital. The COACH program helps young teens like me work in a hospital setting so we can find out what it feels like to work in a health field. Being a part of this program was one of the best experiences I have ever had, because it taught me skills such as being responsible by showing up on time. I learned what the expectations are when you work in a hospital setting, but most of all I enjoyed meeting new people.

One day when we were attending a work shop, my boss told me about an opportunity for young women. I thought to myself, hmm this would be a really good experience, knowing that I had never done anything of this sort before. I happily took an application, filled it out, and returned it the next day. A few weeks later I received a phone call from the supervisor saying I had an interview. I was so excited that I almost knocked over the homework that I was working on.

I went for an interview and I was surprised by my reaction because usually I would be nervous and worried about how intimidated I was going to feel, but this time I felt differently. I was excited and could not wait to meet the people who were going to interview me and learn more about my soon-to-be new job.

When I arrived I was interviewed by Adrianne, Phaedra, as well as Erica (one of the youth advisors). They told me about the job and what my role at the Center would be. During my interview I kept thinking of the three C’s (stay cool, calm, and collected), I answered every question to the best of my ability, made good eye contact, and was honest. Adrianne, Phaedra, and Erica were so nice! They kept me engaged and made the interview so fun and interesting that I was eager to be a part of CYWH team.

One day while hanging out with some friends I received another phone call from Adrianne saying I was hired. She told me what I needed to do in order to start working. Excited! I texted my mom and sister to tell them the good news and that was it! My day was officially made. I was so happy-no one could have messed up my mood! I know I am capable of being an advocate for young women because I’m a good listener who is always willing to help other people with their problems. I’m also very trustworthy and responsible enough to take on the role of a youth advisor. I’m willing to take advice and constructive criticism as I grow along with the CYWH. I hope to be a positive influence in the lives of people in my community, especially young women.

-Kayla