The UC Berkeley Social Sciences Career Readiness Internship Program (SSCRIP) was designed to equip students with the practical knowledge and real-world experience they need to succeed in their future careers. Nohemi Aguilar, a senior who is majoring in sociology and pursuing a human rights minor, is already seeing the program's impact after her first semester.
Aguilar came to Cal after receiving several associate degrees from Cañada College in Redwood City. Feeling the need for guidance on how to break into the nonprofit or legal sectors she hopes to work in, she discovered that SSCRIP offered the perfect opportunity to develop the necessary skills. She's now in the second semester of the 1-year program, which begins with a comprehensive professional development course and culminates with students being placed in a paid summer internship in one of three sectors of their choice (corporate, nonprofit and public service), either in the U.S. or abroad.
Berkeley Social Sciences spoke with Aguilar about her journey to SSCRIP and what she has learned from the program so far. This interview has been edited for clarity.
Can you share your journey to UC Berkeley and what led you to SSCRIP?
Nohemi Aguilar: I am a first-generation, low-income, woman of color student. My journey to Cal involved obtaining several associate degrees at my community college in an effort to figure out which career path I wanted to pursue. By the time I was accepted to Cal, I was a re-entry student (a student who returns to college after a period of absence) with minimal research skills and several years of experience in retail. I was led to SSCRIP because of the opportunity it presented to break into a sector relevant to my degree. It has been the most rewarding program that I have been a part of at Cal.
What has been your favorite part of the program so far, and why?
Nohemi Aguilar: My favorite part of this program so far has been the opportunity to meet and connect with Cal alumni, who have been pioneers in each of their respective fields. It's been incredibly inspiring to speak and connect with individuals who started in the same position as me. While I have not started my internship just yet, I am confident that it will be one of my favorite parts as well.
What are some of the key takeaways you have learned from the alumni panels and career coaching workshops?
Nohemi Aguilar: Network! In each of the alumni panels, networking was one of the most stressed strategies to become successful in whatever career you choose. Each panel was filled with strategies, tips and reassurance that those awkward cold calls/emails are worth it. Take advantage of your position as a Cal student and reach out to alumni who are in the field you're interested in.
Practice! In our career coaching and workshops, practicing the skills we need to demonstrate our capabilities to potential employers was emphasized. Whether it's for an interview, a pitch or a cover letter, practicing these skills will prepare you to ace whatever opportunity you are pursuing.
What kind of internship are you hoping to pursue this summer, and how is SSCRIP preparing you for it?
Nohemi Aguilar: I am hoping to pursue an international internship in the legal or nonprofit sector. SSCRIP has helped me prepare for this opportunity by providing me with assistance in perfecting my resume, preparing me for interviews and exposing me to the work that is done in both of these sectors.
Looking ahead, how do you think the tools you are learning in SSCRIP will help you as you start your career after graduation?
Nohemi Aguilar: I believe that the tools I am learning in SSCRIP will help me in the career I start after graduation by giving me a more competitive edge in the job market. Being able to confidently apply the tools SSCRIP has given me will allow me to succeed in every stage of the hiring process and maintain professional networks that will ensure my future success.
