The Port of Portland’s Internship Program gives college students an opportunity to apply their classroom education to real-life situations and develop the skills and work experience that will enhance their competitiveness for future employment opportunities.
In return, these college students give us lots of new energy and creative ideas.
Are you in college or know someone attending a local university? To give you a preview of what the Port’s internship program entails, we asked our current interns to answer a few questions about their experience. Today, meet HR Intern Jasmine Gilmore.
Name: Jasmine Gilmore
Title and Department: Human Resources Intern, HR
School and Studies: Portland State University, Human Resources Management and Leadership
Can you share a bit about your background and what drew you to apply for an internship at the Port?
I was born in Riverside, CA, but I’ve lived in the Portland area for most of my life. I graduated from Tualatin High School in 2015. Before coming to the Port, I was a barista/supervisor at Starbucks for 5 years while studying at Portland State.
My path to get here is a little different than the other internships. I’m interning through the Emerging Leaders Internship Program. They match you with companies that they feel are the right fit and send off your resume, and the Port happened to be one of the companies I matched with. I had a really positive experience with my interview panel, which played a huge role in my decision. And each time I told someone I was matched with the Port, they would tell me that the Port has a long-standing reputation for being one of the best employers because of all they offer and all they do. I would have the opportunity to learn from some of the best and expand my network greatly, so it was a no brainer that I should intern here after that.
In a few sentences, can you describe your work at the Port?
As a part of my internship in the HR department, I’ve been spending each week with a different mentor that walks me through their day-to-day. In addition to that, I’ve been picking up projects, like organizing events, running reports and miscellaneous projects, and helping support the team with the different things rolling out.
What do you find most rewarding about your work?
I love helping make a difference in people’s lives and making things easier for them. I feel like a career in HR allows me the opportunity to do that. Seeing people have a sense of relief when they’re able to get assistance with something means everything to me.
What do you like to do in your free time?
In my free time, I love running, cooking, hiking with friends, and listening to music.
Our careers website plays with the idea that “We’re not what you’d expect.” What can you share about yourself that might surprise your Port colleagues?
I’m a former Nationally Ranked USATF Junior Olympian in the 400m (10th) and the 4x400m as a relay member (8th)!
Want to join the Port of Portland Internship Program? Learn more and sign up for our job alerts now to receive email alerts when internships that match your interests become available.
