Will Rosenheimer ‘10
Hispanic Scholarship Fund
Summer Fellow

Why did you want to become a PIFP Fellow?

PIFP is a great opportunity to become involved in and make a positive difference for the local community. Social service is a valuable contribution to the whole of society, and it is an unwritten expectation of one’s role as a citizen. I think the PIFP program is an amazing opportunity to utilize the skills we have acquired as CC students, and apply them directly toward improving Colorado communities.

Please give a brief description of your job/role in your host organization.

My role as a summer fellow has been to assist the Colorado branch director of the HSF in her duties as we progress through the busy summer schedule. My many different tasks have ranged from logistical planning of a week-long summer bridge program for this year’s cohort of Rising Star scholarship recipients, to doing various outreach programs with middle school and high school groups to advocate higher education. We also work with current scholars by providing them with retention services (resume writing, job interview practice, study skills, etc.) in hopes that they will continue to succeed in their educational endeavors.

What’s the most interesting thing you’ve learned about your host organization so far?

It has been quite alarming to realize the poor caliber and horrendous graduation and success rates that plague the Denver public school system. The vast majority of our scholars are low-income, under-resourced, first-generation students who face grave challenges in their pathways to success. Assisting these students to achieve their goals has been very rewarding and I am amazed and grateful to be learning so much every day.

What activities do you enjoy?

I enjoy playing music (guitar and mandolin), sailing, skiing, and enjoying the natural beauty and endless adventure that our wonderful state of Colorado has to offer. I also have a passion for travel, enjoy learning Spanish, and hope to combine these two interests upon graduating next year with some extended work/adventure through Latin America.

What is something most people would be surprised to know about you?

I love string cheese!