Community Fellows Blog Posts

Through my internship at the Hispanic Foundation of Silicon Valley, I have gained a new perspective on how business skills are applied to support nonprofit and community-focused work. I have come to understand the critical role that effective communication plays in advancing an organization’s mission. In particular, I assist with drafting weekly newsletters, which requires strong written communication skills to convey information clearly, professionally, and strategically to various stakeholders. I also periodically edit grant proposals, an experience that has highlighted the importance of professional writing in securing funding and ensuring organizational sustainability. 

Additionally, I have had opportunities to create presentations and present information to the team, which has strengthened my ability to communicate ideas clearly and confidently in a professional setting. These experiences have reinforced the importance of strong presentation skills in nonprofit work, particularly when sharing program updates, aligning team members, and supporting decision-making processes. The presentation and public speaking skills I apply in this role were developed through coursework and experiential learning at the Leavey School of Business. 

Overall, the skills and strengths that are especially valuable within my organization include written and verbal communication, attention to detail, and professional etiquette. Through academic training and networking experiences at the Leavey School of Business, I have developed a strong sense of professionalism and an understanding of effective business communication. These skills enable me to contribute meaningfully to the organization’s outreach efforts, maintain credibility with partners and funders, and support its broader mission of serving the community.

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