YouthForce’s Career Internship Program was thrilled to partner with Bank of America for the first time this summer. We received over 80 applications and were excited to select Nakita as the final candidate for an internship position with the Rainier Beach branch. Nakita started her 6-week summer program in July and finished up at the end of August.

As a Student Intern, Nakita worked closely with the Rainier Beach branch customers by helping them use the ATM and set up mobile banking, and talking with them about the benefits of online banking.

“I’m getting more comfortable talking to people about things that aren’t a part of typical conversation. This internship has helped me learn how to ask questions that are pertinent to their lives, while also providing them with a service,” Nakita explained.

Nakita’s manager, William, photo bombs the picture, revealing much about the welcoming atmosphere at the Rainier Beach branch of Bank of America.

Everyone is very welcoming and open to me trying new things.

Nakita spoke highly of her manager, William, and Assistant Manager, Jazz. “I’ve shadowed both of them. William takes a lot of time to talk to me about banking for myself and learning how to invest….Everyone is very welcoming and open to me trying new things.”

Nakita’s manager, William, suggested we take a photo by their community board, featuring photos of bank customers from around the Othello neighborhood.

Nakita shared enthusiastically about the wide variety of experiences she’s had in this position. “Everyday here is different. Sometimes I shadow the bankers, or go behind the teller line and assist them wherever is needed.”

“After graduating from dental school, I hope to open my own dental practice.”

This fall, Nakita will be attending the University of Washington where she will be studying business as well as taking pre-dental courses in preparation for her application to the UW School of Dentistry and UW Foster School of Business. “After graduating from dental school, I hope to open my own dental practice” Nakita explained.