By Ella Verinder, DLE communications intern and freshman at Smith College in Northampton, MA

Hi everyone! My name is Ella Verinder, and I’m a first-year student at Smith College in Northampton, MA. I’m double majoring in English and Sociology, and I’m so excited to join the Dulye Leadership Experience (DLE) team!

When I was a little kid, I would spend hours scribbling stories in notebooks. My mom is a writer, too, and I loved sitting next to her, watching her type her stories while I wrote down mine. This love for writing has only grown as I’ve gotten older.

As a high school student in Boston, I wrote for the magazine Teens in Print, and I’ve continued to pursue journalism in college by contributing to Smith’s literary magazines. It’s such a privilege to have the DLE support my writing interests so I can continue my love of storytelling while gaining experience in a more professional communications setting.

The work of the DLE is especially meaningful to me as a college student considering future career options. In today’s world–where the work of interns and entry-level positions can increasingly be replaced by AI–opportunities like this are more valuable than ever. The skills I’ll gain in this role are not only useful for my short-term communications goals but also essential for my growth as a person and future leader.

Entry-level positions and internships may seem less significant in our new stage of technology, but the people who start in these roles will one day be CEOs, directors, and founders–and that early experience is crucial to their success. I’m grateful to get that experience with the DLE.

Outside of school and working, I love fashion, listening to music, and hanging out with my friends. Caring for people and being part of a community are some of my core values, and I am so excited to practice them as I join this team!