By Natalia Arroyo
This summer, I knew I wanted to do something hands-on—something that would challenge me in a good way, stretch my thinking, and remind me why I care so much about people and systems and change. I’m only a couple of weeks in, but already I can feel the difference between learning about this kind of work in a classroom and actually showing up and doing it in real life.
I’m currently working in an early childhood education setting, and even though I originally thought I’d be pursuing something more directly law-related this summer, I’ve realized that this experience is teaching me just as much—if not more—about human behavior, empathy, and the power of presence.
There are a few things I really want to do during this summer that feel both personal and tied to my bigger goals:
1. Build trust and meaningful connections with the children I work with.
It might sound small, but creating a sense of safety and belonging for a child is something I see as incredibly powerful. Every day, I walk into a space where young kids are learning how to express themselves, how to handle big emotions, how to connect with others. If I can help be a calm, consistent presence in that process, that’s a big deal. For me, that’s what advocacy looks like at the earliest level.
2. Show up with consistency and kindness, even on hard days.
I won’t lie—some days are tiring. But I want to be someone who still shows up with care and intention, even when I’m tired or overwhelmed. I think that’s the real work: choosing to bring your best to the people around you when it’s not convenient or easy. That’s the kind of person I want to be, and this summer is giving me lots of practice.
3. Notice and remember the small wins.
There are so many moments that would be easy to overlook: a kid saying please without being reminded, a moment of teamwork between toddlers, a quiet high-five after a tough transition. I want to take time each week to reflect on those and let them guide me. Sometimes it’s the smallest stuff that teaches the biggest lessons.
This summer, I’m also really focusing on two skills I want to grow in, both of which show up daily and will carry over into my long-term goals:
Being around kids all day is like looking into a mirror—your energy, mood, and tone get reflected right back at you. I’ve realized how important it is to stay grounded, patient, and emotionally aware. Whether it’s helping a child navigate frustration or noticing when a coworker needs support, emotional intelligence is a skill I’m constantly practicing. I know this will be key in any future role I take on, especially if I go into law or social work.
From daily check-ins with co-teachers to updating parents or asking for feedback, communication matters. I’ve been trying to speak up more clearly, ask thoughtful questions, and express myself in a way that balances kindness and professionalism. These experiences are helping me build confidence in my voice—something I know I’ll need whether I’m in a courtroom, a policy meeting, or working with clients one-on-one.
Now that I’m a few weeks in, I keep coming back to this one line that’s stuck with me: “Be where your feet are.”
I heard it once in a podcast, and even though it’s simple, it feels like the reminder I need every single day. I’m someone who can get really wrapped up in the future—what’s next, how I’m measuring up, if I’m doing “enough.” But this summer is teaching me that being present is just as important. Whether I’m sitting on the carpet reading a book or helping clean up after lunch, those little moments matter. They’re part of something bigger, and they’re shaping who I’m becoming.
This experience is already pushing me in the best way. It’s not perfect, and it’s definitely not always easy—but it feels real. It feels aligned. I’m learning to listen more, to trust myself, and to slow down and take in the lessons that don’t always show up in bold letters.
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