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Growing up, I had no clue what I wanted to do with my life. It was tough to picture myself in that kind of role, primarily because it differs from what I’ve known in my family.
Fabio Cornejo
A CHAT WITH FABIO

Navigating Growth and Leadership:

Fabio Cornejo’s Internship Journey

Internships are often viewed through the lens of professional development, serving as a bridge between academic theories and real-world applications. However, the impact of these experiences extends far beyond the confines of professional growth, carving out a space where young individuals are introduced to the building blocks of leadership and the foundational stones of confidence. At Tomorrow’s Talent, we believe in shedding light on these transformative journeys, emphasizing not just the skills garnered along the way but, more importantly, the personal evolution that unfolds.

In this spirit, we sat down with Fabio, an intern with the County of San Bernardino Public Health Department. Fabio has navigated the ebbs and flows of personal and professional development through his dedication to learning and growth.

TT: Congrats on the initial internship placement! Tomorrow’s Talent just learned that a full-time position may be coming your way. How did that happen, and how did it make you feel?

Fabio: Thank you! It’s been a really exciting time. Just three weeks into the internship, my supervisor, Raul, messaged me on Teams to ask me to come to his office. The call made me nervous at first—you know, like when you’re a kid and called to the principal’s office, you expect the worst. Raul started talking about the internship and growth opportunities. Then he mentioned a PSE (Public Service Employee) position opening and gave me insight into the possibility.

TT: How has the experience been for you at the County? Was it what you expected?

Fabio: I initially thought I had a good grasp on my field, like playing at the college level. But stepping into the County felt like jumping from high school football straight to the NFL—it was a different league. I remember telling the IT deputy chief that it was like entering the pros. It was initially intimidating because I realized there was so much I didn’t know. However, the environment at the County quickly showed me it was all about growth. Everyone there, so great and helpful, was keen on seeing me develop. They were always ready to push me, support me, provide new opportunities, and place me in varied situations to enhance my learning and see how well I adapted. It’s an environment where growth is not just encouraged but actively fostered—for me and everyone else. I truly love the culture there; it’s fantastic.

TT: It sounds like you’re under some great leadership. Is this the first time you’ve been exposed to a position where you can really see opportunities for growth and expansion?

Fabio: Yes, it feels significantly different. I have worked at places like Amazon, where management did encourage reaching higher goals, but it’s not quite the same. At the County, the approach to growth is much more tangible. They constantly offer new experiences and learning opportunities. There’s a strong emphasis on internal growth and development, as much of what we work on is developed in-house. This environment really nurtures professional expansion in a way I haven’t experienced before.

TT: Tomorrow’s Talent is so fortunate to have been a part of your journey and placement. From your perspective, how would you say Tomorrow’s Talent did with skill-matching for your position?

Fabio: Honestly, my experience with Tomorrow’s Talent, particularly during the interview process, was stellar. I connected with Raul during a series of mock interviews which Tomorrow’s Talent facilitated. The team there encouraged all the participants to stay motivated and to remember the interviewers are human like us. Raul and I really hit it off, not just professionally but on a personal level. We discussed everything from family backgrounds to our shared experience of our families coming from humble beginnings and striving to succeed in this country. That common ground we discovered showcased the effectiveness of Tomorrow’s Talent’s ability to match skills and personalities. They inspired and demonstrated that I could achieve great things by pursuing what I’m passionate about.

TT: Can you describe a specific task or project that has been particularly meaningful during your internship, especially since you’ve only been there for a few weeks?

Fabio: Certainly! When I first started, I was honestly overwhelmed. The amount of information thrown at you felt immense—it was like a truckload hitting you all at once. From my past job experiences, I recognized this initial flood of info as typical—you feel swamped at first with all the acronyms, project details, and new systems, but gradually, it becomes manageable.

One significant project I’ve been involved in is asset tagging and inventory management, which we’re doing entirely in-house. This involves using a newly rolled out app to enter each office in our buildings to verify and adjust asset details directly from my phone. I check everything, make notes, update the asset locations, and note down to whom each asset is assigned. It’s comprehensive work involving coordination with other interns, which has been both challenging and rewarding.

Additionally, I’ve been given the responsibility to configure county-issued phones with necessary programs and apps. This task has not only helped me understand more about our technical infrastructure but also allowed me to interact with many employees in different departments, enhancing my learning and connection within the county.

Through these tasks, especially with the asset tagging project, I’ve learned a great deal not just about managing and organizing resources but also about effective communication and teamwork in a professional setting.

TT: Since you started your internship, do you feel there are certain skills or abilities that have been particularly enhanced, such as interpersonal skills or listening abilities?

Fabio: Absolutely, I’ve noticed a significant improvement in how I work with others. The county environment is filled with diverse individuals, which has really allowed my personality to shine through and helped me excel as an employee. I feel like I’m coming into my own once again, which is a refreshing change.

In my previous job, I mostly worked alone, which somewhat stifled my natural way of operating. I’m a people person; I thrive on interaction and enjoy the dynamics of working with others. Being at the county, surrounded by various personalities, and engaging with different employees has brought out the best in me.

TT: Did you ever envision yourself working for a large institution or employer, such as the county?

Fabio: It’s something new for me. Growing up, I had no clue what I wanted to do with my life. The default image I had was perhaps working in the private sector. Still, even then, the idea of dressing up in a suit and fitting into a corporate office environment seemed intimidating. It was tough to picture myself in that kind of role, primarily because it differs from what I’ve known in my family. My dad’s a truck driver and my uncles are laborers; suits and office jobs were just not part of my world.

But now, having experienced the county work environment—seeing the benefits and the competitive pay—it makes me wonder why everyone isn’t working here. It’s been a great eye-opener and has made me appreciate the opportunities that come with employment at such institutions.

TT: Can you share a bit about yourself? Specifically, how did you develop an interest in the computer and IT industry? Did it begin in high school, or was college the turning point for you?

Fabio: From a very young age, I was the go-to computer guy in my family. Whether it was a problem with a phone or Wi-Fi, my aunts and uncles always called me for help. My passion for computers started early, especially after moving from Arizona to California. Being shy and not having many friends, I found comfort in computers, spending most of my time playing video games throughout middle school. This constant exposure naturally led me to learn a lot about computers.
In high school, a friend, recognizing my interest in computers, suggested I join the school’s CyberPatriot club, a cybersecurity group. The club, coupled with the offer of free Chick-fil-A, was too good to pass up.

However, what truly shaped my path was realizing the potential for a career in computers—a concept that was new to me and my family. The CyberPatriot club introduced me to the cybersecurity program at Cal State San Bernardino. Encouragement from my teacher and club president led me to pursue an education in cybersecurity. Reflecting on my journey, it feels like I was always destined to work with computers which makes me laugh. I don’t reflect as much as I should because it’s been quite a journey.

TT: I’m curious if you could share some advice with students contemplating internships or apprenticeships. Imagine you’re giving advice to your 17- or 18-year-old self. What would you say to boost their confidence in pursuing internships and apprenticeships?

Fabio: One crucial piece of advice I’d give is to learn to be comfortable with being uncomfortable. Entering an internship or apprenticeship means doing things you’ve never done before. It requires initiating conversations about jobs, pushing yourself continually, and maintaining motivation. It’s natural to feel scared; that’s a given. But it’s through pushing past that fear that you really start to make progress. So, the key is to keep believing in yourself. Confidence and self-belief are essential, as is the ability to adapt and roll with the punches.

Bridging People to Passion

Fabio Cornejo’s story is a vivid reminder of the invaluable impact that internships can have on young people at the cusp of their professional journeys.

It’s clear that internships offer much more than a step on the career ladder; they foster the next generation of innovative leaders equipped to face tomorrow’s challenges. With this in mind, we urge employers across industries to recognize the immense value of investing in internship programs. By doing so, you’re not merely filling a temporary role but cultivating the potential of future changemakers who will drive our world forward. Let’s commit to unlocking this potential together, providing more opportunities for growth, learning, and development for aspiring professionals like Fabio.