From Searching to Thriving: Jason Kindree’s Summer Journey with the City of Pocatello

Finding a summer job is a rite of passage for many students, often filled with an equal portion of anxiety and anticipation. Jason Kindree, a first-year doctoral student in Political Science, was no exception. He knew opportunities were out there, but the challenge was figuring out which one would be the perfect fit.

That uncertainty began to slowly vanish the moment he spotted a brightly colored sign for a summer job fair on campus. And there, an internship with the City of Pocatello's Department of Historic Preservation was advertised. Kindree could not have imagined just how transformative the role would be, and how it would set him on an experience he would take on wholeheartedly.

However, it was the conversation Kindree had with a staff member at the Career Path Internship (CPI) information booth that convinced him he was in the right place. Their conversation sparked something special within him, particularly working with the City of Pocatello. Kindree quickly felt a strong connection to the role, believing without a doubt that it fit perfectly with both his ambitious research project and his deep-rooted interest in America’s rich history.

“In April, as I strolled around campus, I saw this vivid poster announcing the summer job fair. Intrigued, I checked it out, but at first, nothing seemed to resonate,” Kindree says. “Then I met one of the employers at the CPI office, who shared such enthusiastic insights into this amazing opportunity. In that moment, I felt a spark; my passion for American history had found a place.”

In early May, Kindree received an email offering him the position, marking the start of an exciting new adventure in his academic and professional journey.

“This internship is not just about gaining practical experience; it’s also a valuable treasure for the research paper I’m working on. I can't wait to dive into all the fantastic resources I’ll uncover during this summer journey,” Kindree added with a grin. 

Kindree’s role revolves around uncovering and sharing captivating stories about significant events and remarkable individuals connected to the city. Kindree has enjoyed his time as a researcher, immersing himself in the rich history of Pocatello. 

On a typical day, Kindree will dive into documents and conduct engaging interviews with experts, including professors and local historians. 

“I track these individuals down to record their stories through audio interviews, then weave together narratives based on the information I gather.” Kindree shared. “I truly enjoy my work and feel grateful for my supportive coworkers. I’m learning something new every single day.”

Through his role with the City of Pocatello, Kindree is deepening his understanding of American history, which is benefiting his academic research. 

“I've honed my organizational skills and attention to detail, reading more than ever, which is an essential part of pursuing a doctorate,” Kindree explained. “I recognize the importance of extensive reading and research,” 

Kindree shared that the patience, professionalism, and diplomacy he's developed through his experiences have become invaluable skills in his journey. He is grateful for the amazing colleagues he’s worked with and the positive environment they've fostered together, making his role not just easier but a joy to be a part of. 

“What’s truly remarkable is how my teammates work tirelessly to support my success,” he explained. “There are times I feel frustrated or discouraged when I can’t secure interviews with certain individuals, but my wonderful colleagues always encourage me to keep pushing forward until I reach my goals. That’s the kind of supportive atmosphere that makes you want to stay and grow for years to come.” 

He also gives a big thank you to the Career Center for guiding him toward a job that perfectly aligns with his aspirations. “The CPI program is simply fantastic! Before I discovered it, I was honestly lost when it came to finding a summer job. I feel incredibly fortunate to have landed a position with the City of Pocatello thanks to their assistance. It’s an amazing opportunity for students who might feel overwhelmed with school and unsure where to start their job search.”

“I encourage my fellow students to explore CPI positions and seize this chance to elevate their resumes. It truly offers a smoother transition from student life to the professional world,” he added with a warm smile.