TYO Intern Alumni: Where are They Now?

Hilary Landfried

My internship has given me the skills to work in a culture different from my own and helped me to develop flexibility.

A Hermitage, PA native, Hilary taught Music and Art, Community English, Women's Fitness, and Professional Competency as an intern at TYO Nablus in the summer of 2012.

What was your favorite moment/story from your time with TYO? 

It is hard to choose a favorite moment. I think I have a couple favorite stories from each one of my classes. However, I think the moment that really put a smile on my face was early on during my music and art class with the kids. I had just taught them basic music staff notation and asked them to write four measure songs. The following class, every student got the chance to try to play their song on the piano by themselves. I was amazed by how quickly some of my students picked things up. Even more heart-warming was watching how proud every single one of them was once they finished.

What do you miss most about TYO or Nablus?

Kanafeh! Just kidding, although I do miss it quite a bit. I miss the people in my classes. I loved working with the kids and watching them grow with confidence musically. I also really miss the spunk so many of the ladies in my aerobics class had. I only slightly miss the excuses my Professional Competency class gave me when they didn't turn in their homework though.

What have you been up to after leaving Nablus and what are your plans for the future?

At the moment I am finishing my senior year at college, and I run several service programs on campus. I am not sure where I will end up after graduation (although I have my fingers crossed for some options). It's the uncertainty that makes life exciting, right?

How do you think TYO affected you personally and professionally?

TYO really helped me further develop some stock professional skills such as report writing, lesson planning, organization, and thinking on my feet. My internship has given me the skills to work in a culture different from my own and helped me to develop flexibility.

Do you have any advice for anyone considering applying for a TYO internship?

Share why you like working with kids and what unique talents you can bring to the table. These kids deserve amazing and passionate interns. Explain why you'd be just that.