From Seedling to Skyline: A Journey from High School to Finance

Thy Ha

When Thy Ha first joined Enterprise for Youth as a sophomore in high school, she had no idea how much it would shape her future.

Now a freshman at Amherst College, majoring in economics and math, Thy looks back on her time at Enterprise for Youth as a turning point. Not just for her resume, but for her confidence, community, and career direction.

Learning the Basics and Building Confidence

Thy joined Enterprise for Youth’s job readiness training program shortly after the pandemic, when workshops were still held online.

“It was my first time learning how to write a cover letter, build a resume, and practice interview skills,” she shares. “One of the most memorable tips I learned was to look at the camera during a virtual interview instead of the screen, that way it feels like you’re making eye contact.”

That small but powerful lesson stuck with her. It wasn’t just about interviews, it was about presenting herself with confidence.

A First Internship at Sutro Stewards

After completing the training, Thy landed her first internship with Sutro Stewards during the summer of her sophomore year.

It was her first hands-on job experience.

“I worked with plants, helped take care of nurseries, removed invasive species, and learned how to identify native plants,” she says. “We also went on field trips where I learned more about my community and the history of San Francisco.”

That experience expanded her understanding of environmental work and deepened her connection to her city. More importantly, it helped her realize she was capable of stepping into professional spaces.

“After my first internship, I felt inspired and more confident to put myself out there,” Thy explains.

Four Internships, One Strong Foundation

Thy didn’t stop at one internship. Through Enterprise for Youth, she completed four internships in total. Each experience added new skills, responsibilities, and professional connections.

“Through all four internships, I was able to build a full resume,” she says. “That really helped me when I started applying for opportunities outside of high school.”

By her junior year, Thy secured a competitive summer internship with Spectrum Equity, where she explored the finance industry through a rotational program and shadowed professionals in different departments.

“Without Enterprise for Youth and all of its support, I don’t think I would have been able to gain that type of internship,” she reflects. “It gave me the foundation and confidence to pursue opportunities I wouldn’t have thought possible before.”

Building Community Beyond School

While professional skills were important, Thy says one of the most meaningful aspects of Enterprise for Youth was the community it created.

“I got to meet peers from across the city, from different high schools and neighborhoods,” she says. “It helped me build a community beyond just my school life.”

She also became more comfortable interacting with adults and professionals.

“Through the internships, I became more confident talking to older colleagues and relating to their experiences,” she explains. “That’s something that really prepared me for college and future careers.”

Why She Recommends Enterprise for Youth

For Thy, Enterprise for Youth was more than a program, it was a launchpad.

“It provided me with invaluable opportunities to grow professionally and personally,” she says. “I would definitely recommend Enterprise for Youth to others. It helps you build confidence, gain real-world experience, and create a community that supports you beyond high school.”

From learning how to make eye contact on Zoom to exploring the finance industry and now pursuing economics and math in college, Thy’s journey shows how early access to opportunity can create lasting impact.

Thy’s story is a powerful reminder that with guidance, hands-on experience, and a supportive community, the seeds planted in high school can grow into a future full of opportunity and achievement.