Internship program a confidence-booster for participants

The seven interns of the 2nd Annual TanHoldings Summer Internship Program pose for a group photo after Wednesday’s completion ceremony at Kanoa Resort. (Jon Perez)

The experience of working in eight of TanHoldings Corp.’s businesses was a big help to the seven interns that joined the company’s summer internship program, who said it gave them valuable insights as they prepare to take on different career paths.

The TanHoldings Summer Internship Program ended its six-week-long run last Wednesday with a completion ceremony and all interns were presented with certificates to mark the occasion.

The interns were rotated in eight TanHoldings businesses: Century Insurance, D&Q, Fiesta Resort & Spa-Saipan, Kanoa Resort, Let’s Go/SEATOUCH, RMS, POI Aviation, and Saipan Tribune.

They got to spend at least a week in each business unit, reporting to mentors that showed them the daily operations. Last Wednesday, they took turns reflecting on their almost 30-day journey.

Conseco John P. Arurang, Sherilyn M. Beceril, Micaiah Joanna A. Corpuz, Alliyah I. Debengek, Mackenzie Rae U. Perez, Earl Daivick B. Tabora, and Aira Joy Velasco were the interns that participated in the second year of the program.

Arurang, who will soon start working at POI, said he is thankful to TanHoldings and the Tan Siu Lin Foundation for coming up with the program. “It was hard but fun and the skills that I learned from my mentors will make my job easier.”

Beceril, an incoming junior at Marianas High School, said that improving her communication skills was one of the benefits she gained. “It was nerve-wracking but it motivated me to do my best and it increased my communication skills.”

Corpuz said the experience was more of a transformation for them. “We learned various skills from our mentors. It was an honor to meet the hardworking men and women of TanHoldings.”

Debengek said she walked away with some experience from each of the business units she worked in. “I was really nervous to work on my own but as the days passed by, I got used to it. Everyone has a part to play.”

Perez was a bit scared at first since she did not know anyone. “I have terrible communication skills. But now, I walk away from this program armed with skills I didn’t know before. I grew up as a person through this program.”

Tabora said the program not only taught him new skills but also helped him to become sociable person. “I met new friends and I learned to step out of my comfort zone. Thank you to all our mentors for the educational journey.”

Velasco, a senior at MHS, thanked his family and mentors for motivating and supporting her journey. “Our mistakes are part of who we are. Even with our mistakes, there are people who act as a compass that guide us. I overcame my shyness with their help.”