Liliana Leon
Liliana Leon Northwestern University ’24, Major: Human Development in Context Minors: Psychology & Latinx Studies
Liliana Leon is a rising senior at Northwestern University, majoring in Human Development in Context with minors in Psychology and Latinx studies. As a first-generation college student, she hopes to make an impact with the Office of Gift Planning by supporting other students with experiences like hers.
What drew you to this opportunity?
I was drawn to this opportunity because I wanted to engage with other interns interested in educational advancement while learning from professionals in alumni relations at a university level. The CASE Advancement Internship is also an opportunity to begin networking as I consider graduate school and future career paths. Moreover, I am eager to be a part of a team where I can learn not only from my supervisor but from a team as a whole. Each member brings something different to the table, and I would like to learn what impact and support I can provide.
What are you most excited about during your internship?
I am most excited about getting to know the other interns, engaging with my project lead and the rest of the team, and advancing my career development by delving deep into what I hope to do and who I aspire to be.
What is your most memorable college experience?
My most memorable college experience was attending Northwestern’s student-run music festival with my boyfriend! We enjoyed seeing the artists perform and eating BBQ wings at a nearby restaurant. This experience was an excellent way to de-stress before preparing for finals week.
Where do you want to be in 10 years, and how can this internship help you get there?
In 10 years, I want to be in a leadership position where I can offer the most help to the university I work at and mentor new employees. Whether I have a direct student-supporting role, such as career advising, or one associated with alumni relations, such as the gift-planning team, I wish to make a meaningful impact. I want to be proud of the projects I have led and the incredible connections I have made with people along the way.
This internship can help me get there because I am eager to work with the gift-planning team to see this side of alumni relations, a field I would like to learn more about. I am also eager for the independence this internship will help provide since this is my first time far away from home. I would like to know if moving away from Chicago is something I would be interested in for graduate school or future occupations. Lastly, I look forward to branching out to develop my interpersonal and teamwork skills.
What does philanthropy mean to you?
Philanthropy means giving back to the community, particularly through charitable donations to support organizations one sees as a worthy cause.
What excites you most about spending your summer in Baltimore?
I am excited to meet new people and to dedicate my time to projects that will help me develop new and existing skills. Outside of the internship, I plan to explore the city, learn how to cook, and enjoy different desserts, especially chocolate!
What is something you are passionate about?
I am passionate about helping students transition from high school to college! As a first-generation college student, I am thankful for the services that have supported me throughout my first couple of college years. I want to help with alumni relations in hopes that some funds will go toward funding such instrumental initiatives.
Please share one fun fact about yourself!
When I was 18, I learned how to ride a bike. One month later, I joined my friends and a few teachers on a 30-mile bike ride down Lake Shore Drive!