Freshman Path Scholar Trinity Robinson has already made a splash just a few weeks after arriving on campus. A computer science major from Fayetteville, Trinity is sharing her programming experience as a member of the new Honors College Student Advisory committee focused on communications. And she’s getting some solid pointers on making the most of her college experience from her faculty mentor, Chancellor Joe Steinmetz. Here, she reflects on the value of her high school internship, the Path Program, and the importance of connecting with others — especially during COVID.
The transition to college can be a scary one. There are so many challenges, worries, and life-changing decisions that must be made. Something that can help this transition are summer activities, which provide you with opportunities to learn about yourself and others while working towards your goals. Summer activities such as interning at J.B. Hunt and participating in the Path bridge program have helped me grow both personally and professionally while giving me a strong foundation in multiple aspects of my life.
Trinity Robinson. Photo: Xavier Smith.
I originally found out about the opportunity to intern at J.B. Hunt by attending my first hackathon. I was able to make a connection that ultimately led to me interning as an application development Intern for the past two summers. During my time, I worked on multiple web applications that provided value to the company and customers. I initially struggled quite a bit communicating in a clear and effective manner, but as time went on, I got much more comfortable with communicating with my team and managers. I also felt more ease in asking for help and extending my knowledge to others. My confidence improved a considerable amount as well.
Interning has helped me professionally by making me feel more certain about pursuing a career as a software developer. Before my internship, I knew that I wanted to become a developer, but I had no idea how a professional environment would affect my decision. Thankfully, I absolutely loved working as an intern and I now feel certain in pursuing a career in software.
The Path bridge program helped my transition to college by providing me with a sense of community. Coming into college, I was worried about getting familiar with campus and meeting new people. Path bridge allowed me to meet the rest of my cohort along with amazing faculty within the Honors College. I was able to interact with incredible people and form a strong foundation for relationships with numerous people on campus.
Based on my experience in the Honors College Path Program, I would absolutely recommend it to perspective students. You are provided with a community of people who want you to succeed and who care about you not only as a student, but as a person. You get to interact with people who care about how your day is going, how that difficult project is going, and what they can do to help your time at the University go so much better. You are also provided with numerous opportunities. I have met so many great faculty members within my first month here on campus thanks to being a part of this program. A few of these wonderful people include Xochitl Delgado Solorzano, Mrs. Kendall Curlee, Dean Linda Coon, Dr. Jennie Popp and Chancellor Joseph Steinmetz, who has agreed to mentor me for my freshman year. I was initially nervous about meeting him, but he ended up being super friendly and easy to talk to. Also, I think he enjoyed getting to visit with a student.
Before interning and joining the Path program, I had not fully realized the importance of introducing yourself to people and showing up to different events. During my start here at the University, I introduced myself to people throughout the Honors College and attended various events. As a result, I was able to make connections and learn about opportunities that I never would have if I did not put myself out there. Always try to meet new people and go to various events, because those small interactions can lead to great opportunities for you in the future.
The Eta cohort of Path huddles up for a group shot during the summer bridge program.