After completing an internship this past spring semester, recent Bushnell University graduate and interdisciplinary studies major Jah’lin Green reflected on an experience that helped build his confidence and strengthen his passion for helping others. Green completed his internship with Kidsports, serving as an assistant coach and mentor for young athletes in the Eugene community.
The experience was deeply personal for Green. Living with autism himself, he especially connected with children who face similar challenges — he understood the importance of creating an environment where they felt welcomed and accepted. What started as an opportunity to gain coaching experience quickly became an important step toward his future goals.
We connected with Green to learn more about his internship experience and how it shaped his confidence, future plans, and desire to help others.
Finding Purpose Through Coaching and Mentorship
Green’s interest in the internship came from his own experiences growing up with autism and facing doubts from others about his future. “Most of the time many people just always have doubts that I won’t make it far in the future,” he shared. Those experiences motivated him to become someone who could encourage children facing similar challenges.
“Maybe, just maybe I can help them out in the future,” Green said. “If I become a coach, then I’ll become a coach who [helps] kids who face challenges like mine, so they won’t feel discriminated [against] or feel like they’re a mistake for being born different from everybody else.”
Throughout the internship, Green learned that coaching is about much more than sports. It requires patience, understanding, and learning how to connect with others. “I just have fun with kids,” he said. “I feel I can understand them and learn that I could be patient with them because patience is always key.”
Building Confidence and Communication Skills
One of the biggest takeaways from Green’s internship was the confidence he gained in communicating with others. Before the internship, he often felt nervous in social situations and unsure of himself when speaking with others.
“What I got from here is self-confidence,” Green explained. “I’m not really good at communication… so maybe if I talk to some people, like train to help out, then maybe I’ll slowly build some confidence.”
By consistently showing up, helping coach activities, and spending time with children, Green became more comfortable interacting with others and stepping into a leadership role. He said he feels proud of the growth he experienced throughout the internship.
“I’m proud of me, consistent in helping out kids,” he shared. “I want to understand how they feel and I want to learn more about them.”
The internship also gave Green a clearer picture of what he hopes to do in the future. Inspired by his experience at Kidsports, he hopes to one day create a specialized track and field program that encourages kids who may feel overlooked or underestimated to participate in athletics and build confidence in themselves.
Looking Ahead and Encouraging Others
Green’s time at Kidsports strengthened his desire to continue working with children and pursue coaching opportunities in the future. He said the experience helped him grow personally while confirming his passion for supporting children who may feel overlooked or underestimated.
He also expressed gratitude for the people who encouraged him along the way, especially Coach Walcott, who helped connect him with the internship opportunity. “I want to thank my coach, Coach Walcott, for helping me find a perfect internship program for me,” Green said.
Reflecting on the experience, Green encourages other students to take advantage of internship opportunities and believe in themselves. “Be proud of yourself,” he advised. “Just be happy of what job you’re going to get in the future.”
To learn more about Bushnell University’s academic programs and student opportunities, visit bushnell.edu. To explore internship opportunities and career development resources at Bushnell University, visit bushnell.edu/career-development.