Bank of America Summer Youth Interns: Paul Irvin and Andrew Cubiano
Buffalo Bayou Partnership’s maintenance and operations team gained two interns – Andrew Cubiano and Paul Irvin – from the Bank of America’s Summer Youth Employment Internship Program (SYEI) which provides students the opportunity to gain real-world experience at local nonprofit organizations. This year, the program provided 60 Houston youth with summer internships. Interns, ages 16-21, gain paid work experience as well as Job Readiness training prior to starting at the worksite. SYEI provides an on-ramp to the training and education needed for success in 21st century job roles. The interns work alongside our Fred Soto (Maintenance Technician) and Florensio Tijerina (Park Zone Supervisor) and learn how BBP’s maintenance team manages various aspects of Buffalo Bayou Park, including landscaping and electrical maintenance.
Below is a Q&A with both interns:
Andrew Cubiano, rising junior at Pasadena High School
What are you most excited about learning while at Buffalo Bayou Park? What have you learned so far?
I am excited to see how the maintenance team manages so many projects along Buffalo Bayou. I’ve learned that it is extremely hard work to be out in the heat working! My favorite project so far has been taking apart and cleaning the A/C units behind the Buffalo Bayou Park Cistern.
How did you hear about Bank of America’s Summer Youth Employment Internship Program and why was this a program you wanted to participate in?
My uncle told me that this is a great program and that I should apply.
At the end of the internship, what do you hope to walk away with?
I hope to be able to come back again to work with the BBP staff.
Paul Irvin, rising senior at Victory Prep
Why is BBP’s mission important to you personally?
It shows commitment towards the greater good of Houston.
What are you most excited about learning at BBP? What have you learned during your internship?
I am looking forward to learning more about the different types of native trees and flowers located around the park. Florensio has taught me about the different types of tools used in landscaping.
I’ve enjoyed removing dead tree limbs in various locations around the park, as well as placing signage around the trees and maintaining the area around them.
How did you hear about Bank of America’s Summer Youth Employment Internship Program and why was this a program you wanted to participate in?
I participated in the SYEI program last year with Buffalo Bayou Partnership and have returned because I believe in giving back to the community in any way possible.
At the end of the internship, what do you hope to walk away with?
I hope to gain more experience in landscaping and working with a team.
The SYEI is a partnership between SER Jobs for Progress Houston and Bank of America. SER’s mission is to enhance the quality of life in communities in need by providing education, training, and employment services that empower individuals, businesses, and communities.