We asked Angela Patane at the Public Utilities Commission’s GoSolarSF program about her experience as a YouthWorks worksite mentor. Here’s what Angela had to say:
Why did you decide to become a YouthWorks mentor? My former manager at City Hall hired YouthWorks interns and it was always a good, fun experience so I was excited to have the chance to work with YouthWorks here at the PUC.
What are some of your “best practices” when it comes to mentoring a high school intern? I remind myself that this is one of the intern’s first jobs so a lot of explaining is necessary. In addition to daily assignments, I give our interns multiple ongoing projects so they can learn to schedule their time and workload. I make sure to check in and ask if they have questions.
What do you enjoy about working with high school students? I enjoy the teaching aspect. I’s fun for me to see someone learning things for the first time. It’s also great to have the energy of a young person at the office.
What advice would you give to someone who is considering becoming a YouthWorks mentor? Give it a try! I think you’ll enjoy it and a lot of good work will get done.
Pictured from left to right are mentor Rosie Scott, intern Qiyang L, and mentor Angela Patane.
We thank Angela and the Public Utilities Commission for their continued support of our program.