When the alarm goes off at 6 a.m., Joshua Martínez gets a quick bite of breakfast and heads onto the freeway to arrive on time at the Hattie Mae White building for his first office job.

Joshua is one of 20 interns working in HISD’s Central Office this summer for six weeks. He is assigned to the Communications department, reporting on new superintendent Millard House II and his campus visits.

“I have held service jobs before, so I know the importance of making good first impressions,” said the 18-year-old who graduated from Heights High School with acceptance to The University of Texas at El Paso in the fall.

Innovative Project Director William Solomon hosted interns and staff members—around 80 people total—at the Delmar Field House.

“We wanted to give the interns an opportunity to network with employees from several departments,” Solomon said.

Attendees enjoyed delicious Nutrition Services fare, complete with an ice cream bar.

Superintendent House was the special guest speaker and shared encouraging words about professionalism.

“We are very supportive of our students so they can be not just good, but great leaders,” House said.

Joshua said his internship journey started with a college scholarship from the Houston-based beverage company Exotic Pop. Soon after, he was invited to apply for the district’s summer leadership program and was selected.

“I think all the interns feel fortunate to be here, and we intend to make the most out of the experience,” Joshua said.