by Jessica Ryan
As an intern at Make-A-Wish, I have learned a lot about the organization, myself, and life. This internship was more than just gaining experience, or working in a professional environment, this experience has helped me to grow as an individual. I came into this position hoping to improve on communication skills, organization and adapting to new people and work. I knew I was going to have to make the drive from the State University of New York at Oswego three times a week to the office, but that never once phased me knowing I was helping an organization that does so much to ease the lives of others.
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Upon their sons’ return to Syracuse, Debbie and Marilyn, otherwise known as the “dynamic duo,” began volunteering as wish granters and have since granted wishes for more than 113 children throughout the 15 counties served by Make-A-Wish Central New York. Their exemplary work ethic has inspired practices and policies in use today for volunteer training and to ensure each wish is as unique as the children who make them. 
Flying like Tinker Bell in a plane, dining with Disney Princesses, meeting a star fairy, having unlimited carousel rides, being tucked into bed by bunnies, being chosen for a magical wand, and swimming with real-life mermaids…these are only a handful of the amazing moments we had on Alayah’s wish trip. 
