Spotlight: Serene Awad

Serene Awad, a double major in Environmental Science and Biology at Youngstown State University, recently joined the Land Bank as an intern through the YSU Center for Nonprofit Leadership. Her passion for community service and environmental stewardship made the Land Bank a natural fit.

We recently caught up with Serene to hear more about her experience.  Here are her answers.

What are you most looking forward to in your internship with the Land Bank this summer?
I’m really looking forward to learning more about the inner workings of a nonprofit organization — especially one that’s so dedicated to serving the Youngstown community. The roles I’ve been assigned are unlike anything I’ve done in past jobs or internships, so I’m excited to gain entirely new experiences.

What’s something you’ve learned already that stood out to you?
I’ve already seen how important communication is in the workplace — especially in a nonprofit like the Land Bank. As an intern in a new environment, there’s a lot to learn from people with more experience, and communication is key to that learning process.

What interests you about working in the nonprofit sector?
I’ve always been passionate about both improving the environment and serving the people of Youngstown. I think nonprofits are uniquely positioned to bring about real, positive change in both areas.

What’s your favorite way to spend a summer weekend in the Mahoning Valley?
Anything nature-related, especially in Mill Creek Park. I love hiking and bird watching with friends and family, and I’m looking forward to doing a lot of that this summer.

Are there any skills you’re hoping to develop during your internship?
One of my goals since starting college has been to improve my communication skills. It was a weakness coming out of high school, but I’ve made progress, and I want to continue developing those skills throughout my internship.

What role do you think young people can play in revitalizing neighborhoods?
Staying informed is crucial. I believe young people can make a big impact by educating themselves about neighborhood revitalization initiatives and figuring out where their time and efforts can be most helpful. It all starts with a willingness to stay engaged with the needs of the community.