How the Sharefest Program Helped One Student Step Out of His Comfort Zone and Into a Leadership Role
When Andrew joined Sharefest’s six-week paid internship in the summer of 2024, he never imagined how much it would shape his future. Sharefest first met Andrew while he was a student at Angel’s Gate Continuation High School—a setting designed to help students re-engage with their education and stay on track to graduate. A self-described introvert, Andrew used to avoid new interactions, often keeping to himself. “I wouldn’t really talk to anybody. I would basically hide myself in the crowd so I wouldn’t have to speak to someone new,” he said.
But during the internship, everything began to shift. Surrounded by students from other schools, asked to work on projects with new people, and encouraged to present himself professionally—Andrew began to find his voice. “I learned how to get out of my comfort zone, to start conversations and keep them going. I became more confident talking to people. That wouldn’t have happened without the internship.”
After completing the Sharefest internship, Andrew was selected as one of only four Sharefest alumni to participate in the Cedars-Sinai LADDERS internship—an opportunity to further develop his professional skills and explore careers in construction and engineering. Through hands-on learning and exposure to new industries, Andrew began to see himself in a broader light—not just as someone with potential, but as a young professional capable of stepping into complex, high-responsibility roles.
That confidence paid off in a big way. One day, while out in his community, Andrew spotted an auto shop across the street and decided to walk in and introduce himself. But he didn’t just ask for an application—he made an impression. “I said, ‘Hi, my name is Andrew, nice to meet you. I’m looking for a job as a mechanic. I’m not certified yet, but I’m going to school for it. I’ve worked at an auto shop for two summers, I know basic safety and procedures, and I’d love a chance to start as an apprentice.’ I handed him my résumé and shared what I could bring to the team.”
That extra effort—clearly communicating his goals, his experience, and his eagerness to learn—stood out. “He told me most people just come in asking if there’s an application. He said no one ever introduces themselves like that. Then he said, ‘Come back tomorrow, and I’ll put you to work.’”
Fast forward: after only five months, Andrew is now the shop manager. He answers phones, helps customers, supports the mechanics, and is learning the business from the inside out. He dreams of opening his own shop one day—and he’s laying the groundwork now by soaking up every bit of knowledge and responsibility he can.
Andrew shared, “If I hadn’t done the Sharefest internship I wouldn’t be where I am today.”
Andrew’s story is a reminder that confidence isn’t something you’re born with—it’s something you build. And when young people are given the space and support to grow into themselves, they step forward—not just with skills, but with purpose.
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