INTERN SPEAKS ABOUT MEMORABLE MANOS EXPERIENCE

Where are you from?
I was born in Costa Rica but I grew up in Hayward where I currently reside.

What do you aspire to accomplish in the future?
I’m aiming to work in the public relations field.

How did you hear about Manos Accelerator?
My dad’s friend recommended I apply to Manos after he was informed they were looking for an intern.

What was your role at Manos?
I was the communications intern. I had many different duties but I mostly took care of the company’s entire social media. For example, I’d update Facebook on a daily basis with stories, photographs, event information, reminders, and company information. I also made sure to stay up to date with events and projects to inform the startups and co-workers.

How has Manos helped you grow personally and professionally?
It helped me grow by giving me a much better understanding of Silicon Valley.

What did you take away from your experience at Manos?
I understand the tech industry can be hard work so it’s important to have a little fun along the way.

How has your internship with Manos prepared you for a future career
Before Manos, I didn’t have a real, personal understanding of the startup ecosystem. Now I’ll be a lot better prepared and more confident in the future when I apply to jobs or simply talk about the tech industry.

What was one thing that you were exposed to at Manos that you would not haveexperienced anywhere else?
Meeting a very large amount of people in a very limited amount of time. I met CEO’s of international companies, venture capitalists, investors, and workers from just about every kind of technology company in only a few months.

Share a memorable experience.
Demo Day at Google is one event that stands out. Everyone had such a positive vibe, pitching their ideas and enjoying drinks and food. I really enjoyed visiting the Google campuses several times. Facebook also. Seeing Jennifer Lopez wasn’t bad either!

How did you change during your internship from your first day to your last day?
Throughout the season, I had to start conversations with many new people. It was something I wasn’t used to doing. By my last day, it was second nature.

What was your favorite part about being an intern?
I can’t choose just one. I liked meeting everyone and visiting different companies throughout the Bay Area.

Describe your relationship with your bosses, and the startups.
The bosses are too cool. They assign you a project and then do their own thing. They were understanding and encouraged me to ask questions. The startups are very focused on their companies but still like to be social. The internship reminds me of one of a small college course where everyone focuses on their tasks. We all go to events, dinners, and meetings together. By the end of the season, everyone is good friends.

Where are you now? What are you doing now?
I am applying to many places and hope to find something soon.

Click here to visit Elias’ LinkedIn profile