Kayla and Tien are two Seattle Youth Employment Program interns who work closely on a project for the Seattle Department of Neighborhoods and the Legislative Department. They have been working on projects together all summer. They interviewed each other to share their experiences at the City of Seattle.

Tien: Hi Kayla, it’s been a while. How’s it going?

Kayla: Hey Tien, how are you?

Tien: I’m doing good. I just can’t believe the internship is nearly coming to an end.

Kayla: Let’s talk about our summer a bit. As a Legislative Intern, what did you do in the Legislative Department?

Tien: I was working with Councilmember Rinck’s team and assisted with their duties as a Legislative Aide. My responsibilities included all administrative tasks such as scheduling and email intake, attending committee meetings and outdoor events, as well as shadowing staff positions. How was your work at the Department of Neighborhoods? Tell me something interesting about it.

Kayla: I mostly work on the CID (Chinatown International District) Resource Guide. It has all kinds of necessary information about services and is translated into seven different languages. We distribute the resource guide throughout the CID, so community members have access to resources in their primary languages. I went on a tour in Japantown last week and learned about the Panama Hotel and the Japanese incarceration. Many families left behind their possessions at the hotel for storage. In the end they never could return and their possessions are still there. The hotel has a café with a glass panel on the floor where you can see the belongings most families were never able to reclaim. How about yours?

Tien: For me, I really enjoy engaging in the work of the City’s leaders and how they make decisions regarding legislation. I realize that it is all a collaboration of everyone’s work behind the scenes, from researching to communicating, and establishing the language in order to have a bill released. The team also coordinates with community partners through various meetings and visiting trips. On a tour to the Woodland Park Zoo, we had a chance to listen to constituents and further support their needs. So, how do you feel about the workplace environment?

Kayla: The Department of Neighborhoods (DON) has a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. The walls are decorated with artwork and murals that make the space feel fun and comfortable. On my first day, I was greeted with a personalized welcome sign and a small party, reflecting the supportive culture that everyone appreciates. All my coworkers share the same sentiment that DON builds a strong sense of connection and encouragement.

Tien: I feel like the Legislative Department is pretty much a fast-paced environment. The time is very limited, so the process needs to be done properly to ensure that everything follows the timeline. Everyone here is friendly and supportive. No matter how busy and tired they are, there will always be conversations and follow-ups. It is an intense workplace, so they want to ensure everyone is comfortable and can keep up with their work.

Kayla: I heard something about a rat at a Council meeting. Can you tell me more?

Tien: Of course! That happened when I was attending the Full Council meeting in early July with Kenny and Carol (the Mayor’s Office interns). There is a mosaic at Cal Anderson Park called “Hot Rat Summer” that used to be covered by white paint. However, it became iconic and symbolized the creative spirit of the Capitol Hill neighborhood. The community decided to push back and make public comment. During the council meeting, someone came dressed as a rat to testify. Later that day, I joined Councilmembers Rinck and Hollingsworth at the site to help the community clean the artwork. It was such a fascinating experience. How did you join SYEP?  

Kayla: I did SYEP year-round school program first which led me to the summer program. I’ve done four different summer internships. The Garfield community center, the KVRU radio station, Seattle Public Utilities HR, and finally DON. What I like about my current internship is the opportunity to collaborate with different departments and DON.

Tien: For me, I was introduced to the SYEP Program by a former SYEP Intern, who is now an employee at Seattle Public Utilities for the Solid Waste Division. Last summer, I applied for my first internship as a Real Property Intern, where I gained my first hands-on experience in a professional setting. This time, I returned with a specific interest in advocacy and leadership, which led me to apply for the Legislative Intern.

Kayla: This summer has been so impactful. I didn’t choose DON as my internship, but I was meant to work here. I’ve grown a lot and built many new relationships. Working at DON, I’ve gone on tours to Lake City, the CID, and an art tour to the Seattle Convention Center. I’ve learned so much from many different people working here. From having Allynn’s famous poundcake to the daily lunches with the City Hall interns, all have created unforgettable memories. I hope to take this experience with me on my journey ahead!

Tien: I also have the same opinions. I have learned a lot, both personally and professionally, which has allowed me to further explore and deepen my interest in public service. I walk away from this internship with new skills, valuable insights, and meaningful connections with adults and fellows who share the same interests. I really hope that the program will continue to grow so that more youths can have the opportunity to learn, contribute, and explore their career pathways.

All of the staff at the Seattle Department of Neighborhoods is grateful to be part of the SYEP network and we wish Kayla, Tien, and all the other interns and the best of luck as they move on to new adventures. If you, or anyone you know, could see themselves learning about civic engagement, getting real work experience, and getting paid to do it, SYEP applications are available at our partner department, the Seattle Human Services Division.