Asia Society Texas works with high school and university interns each semester through our Regions Bank Young Leaders Internship program. Under this program, we have partnered with various high schools and universities in the Greater Houston area to provide opportunities for students to engage with the broad swath of programs offered by Asia Society and learn more about nonprofit operations. Interns have worked in program development, research and curriculum-writing, outreach efforts, accounting and finance, and more. Through their time with Asia Society Texas, interns learn more about Asian art, history, and culture while gaining direct experience in a professional environment.

We'd like to shine a spotlight on one of our interns, Reagan Johnson, who facilitated interactive workshops for our summer camp programs!

Learn a little more about Reagan and her internship experience below!

Quick Facts

Name: Reagan Paige Johnson
School: Xavier University of New Orleans (2024 Class of Jack Yates High School)
Date of Internship: Summer 2024
Favorite project you’ve worked on during your internship: During my internship at Asia Society Texas I enjoyed organizing, creating, and assisting the instructors with interactive workshops for school-aged children during the annual summer camp. I facilitated engaging activities that combined learning with hands-on experiences that helped campers explore cultural traditions throughout Asia. Seeing the kids’ excitement and curiosity grow as they learned about different cultures was incredibly gratifying. It was a wonderful opportunity to witness the magic of education combined with creativity and make a lasting impact on the children’s understanding and appreciation of cultural diversity.
Most interesting thing you’ve learned during your internship: One of the most interesting things I’ve learned during my internship is the practical application of theoretical knowledge. Working on real-world projects allowed me to see how concepts from my coursework are utilized in a professional setting. I was able to collaborate with experienced professionals, which enhanced my understanding of industry standards and best practices. This hands-on experience has been invaluable in bridging the gap between academia and the professional world, and it has significantly contributed to my personal and professional growth.

Reflection

This summer, I had the incredible opportunity to intern at Asia Society Texas. As a recent high school graduate from Jack Yates High School, I had a unique chance for me to immerse myself in an environment that celebrates diverse histories and cultures, which fostered my desire to be a global citizen. 

From the outset, I was welcomed into a supportive and vibrant community. The staff and instructors were eager to share their knowledge and passion for cultural learning, which was both inspiring and enlightening. 

One of my primary responsibilities was to assist with the operation of the summer camp and exhibition tours. These tasks not only honed my organizational skills but also allowed me to appreciate the efforts that go into creating an engaging curriculum that accurately and respectfully represent different cultures. 

Interacting with the kids was another highlight of my internship. Explaining exhibits and answering questions allowed me to develop my communication skills and confidence. I realized the value of education and engagement in fostering a greater appreciation for cultural diversity. Seeing young children light up with curiosity and excitement reminded me of the impact that museums can have in broadening perspectives and encouraging inclusivity. 

Moreover, this internship provided me with a glimpse into the professional world, equipping me with practical skills and experiences that will undoubtedly benefit me in my future career. Balancing multiple tasks, working collaboratively with a team, and managing my time effectively were all crucial lessons that I learned during my time at Asia Society Texas and made my summer internship a transformative experience. It not only enriched my understanding of cultural heritage but also strengthened my resolve to pursue higher education and contribute meaningfully to my community. As I embark on my college journey, I carry with me the lessons and inspirations from this internship, excited for the opportunities that lie ahead, determined to continue exploring and celebrating the diverse tapestry of human culture.

Business and Policy programs at Asia Society Texas are presented by Bank of America, Muffet Blake, ExxonMobil, and SheSpace. Major support comes from Nancy C. Allen, Chinhui Juhn and Eddie Allen, The Brown Foundation, Inc., and Houston Endowment Inc. Generous funding provided by bp America, Inc., Anne and Albert Chao, ConocoPhillips, Peter and Shirley Kwan, Regions Bank, and Stephanie and Frank Tsuru. Additional support is provided by the Friends of Asia Society, a dedicated group of individuals and organizations committed to bringing the best in public programming.

Title Sponsor for Internship Program

About Asia Society Texas

Asia Society Texas believes in the strength and beauty of diverse perspectives and people. As an educational institution, we advance cultural exchange by celebrating the vibrant diversity of Asia, inspiring empathy, and fostering a better understanding of our interconnected world. Spanning the fields of arts, business, culture, education, and policy, our programming is rooted in the educational and cultural development of our community — trusting in the power of art, dialogue, and ideas to combat bias and build a more inclusive society.