I’m Zuriel Monzon, an intern at LGA and recent high school graduate preparing to attend Macalester College this August. My journey with LGA began when Cristo Rey St. Viator College Preparatory placed me at LGA as part of their Corporate Work Study Program, aimed at providing students with real workplace experience. Initially reserved, I shied away from seeking help or engaging in conversations with unfamiliar faces. I convinced myself that working a remote job and pursuing an education near my home would be the most convenient and comfortable for me.
My first day at LGA was the complete opposite of what I envisioned myself pursuing. Welcomed warmly by an extroverted office, I was tasked with creating and presenting a presentation about myself to the entire team. The task seemed incredibly daunting for me since I would have much rather sat alone and worked. Despite that, I got through it and life went on. As the months passed and I was becoming accustomed to such a different environment, my friends from school dreaded work because of the monotony of working at a huge office.
During my time at LGA, I delved into various software programs such as SketchUp, Archicad, and Adobe Suite, expanding my skill set significantly. I learned plenty simply from being in an office environment and interacting with several professionals. Moreover, LGA’s emphasis on environmentalism resonated deeply with me, playing a key role in my aspirations towards a degree in Environmental Studies. LGA’s push towards positive environmental impact inspired me to pursue a career that focuses on the environment.
Inspired by LGA’s ethos, I aspire to become an environmental planner or ecologist, driven by a passion ignited during my time at the firm. The experiences and skills gained at LGA will undoubtedly serve as invaluable assets in my future, empowering me to make meaningful contributions to environmental conservation.