Get to Know the Roanoke Regional Partnership’s Newest Employee, Interns
Over the past year, the Roanoke Regional Partnership has emphasized the importance of employers offering internships and entry-level positions to young professionals. These opportunities help retain valuable talent in the region, and the Partnership is committed to leading by example. Our team has grown in recent months with the addition of a new content developer and two interns. Participating in the Get2KNowNoke Onboard|ROA program, these three Roanoke natives have immediately begun contributing to projects aimed at attracting businesses and talent to the region. We are excited to introduce you to these new team members.
Miros Barrera, Content Developer
- What Roanoke high school did you graduate from? Northside High School
- What’s the first job you ever had: Hostess at Cracker Barrel
- What do you want to be when you grow up? I want to do a lot of things, meet a lot of people, and visit a lot of places. I want to open my mind, learn as much as I can, and grow. I don’t know what that looks like specifically, but that’s kinda the point I guess.
- What’s an unpopular opinion you have? Ice cream sandwiches are overrated.
- Most surprising thing about working in a professional setting? The humanness in this environment. People always made it sound like it’d be like working with robots and there would be no room to be yourself and have freedom to do things you enjoy. It’s the complete opposite. Life is very good 🙂
- What are you listening to these days? Hazlett, Luke Hemmings, Jasmine Jethwa, The Ivy, The Maine, Spacey Jane, Wilderado… also a good bit of Spanish music.
- Favorite food/meal/local eatery? Sushi has my heart. Favorite local restaurant is probably Village Grill or Cello.
- What’s something interesting about yourself? I’m obsessed with Yes Theory (YouTube channel) and their “Seek Discomfort” movement.
- What’s your favorite thing about Roanoke? There’s something for everyone. There are so many ways to grow here no matter your background or interests.
Daija McKinstry, Marketing Intern
- What Roanoke high school did you graduate from? Patrick Henry
- What’s the first job you ever had: Child Watch at the YMCA
- What do you want to be when you grow up? My career goals shifted a bit throughout life. I’ve always been fascinated with the entertainment and music industry.
- What’s an unpopular opinion you have? Sugar should not be added to any dinner dish.
- Most surprising thing about working in a professional setting? Work-life can be enjoyable if you follow your passion. I’ve cherished every day in my career, both in the office and out in the field.
- What are you listening to these days? I’ve been in love with R&B Neo-Soul and Alternative Music.
- What’s your favorite thing about Roanoke? The mountains
- Favorite food/meal/local eatery? Obsessed with Sushi and Seafood
- What do you hope to gain from your internship experience? I aim to acquire as much experience and as many skills as possible. I’m like a sponge, eager to absorb all the knowledge I can to improve myself and my abilities. Through this internship, I hope to secure an outstanding position with plenty of future opportunities. I also look forward to networking with other young professionals to help us grow into a community of successful individuals.
Grayson Prillaman, Get2KnowNoke Intern
- What Roanoke high school did you graduate from? North Cross
- What’s the first job you ever had: Landscaping
- What do you want to be when you grow up? Money management / real estate
- What’s an unpopular opinion you have? Subtitles are a must-have
- What are you listening to these days? Cody Jinks, Matt Kozoil
- What’s your favorite thing about Roanoke? Both business and outside opportunities, no traffic
- Favorite food/meal/local eatery? Crab Cakes
- What do you hope to gain from your internship experience? Experience from having a job in an office setting and to gain general marketing experience. I’d also like to meet new people.
