A sociology major with a concentration in criminology, deviance and law, Tyler Tobin ’17 interned at Western Youth Network (WYN) in Boone. WYN is a local non-profit agency that provides youth mentoring, after-school and summer programs, and substance abuse prevention and intervention resources for area youth and their families.

Some of the young people WYN serves are considered at risk based on their family’s economic status, the child’s academic performance or other factors.

Tobin assisted students with homework, monitored sports and led discussion circles on topics such as having a positive day and breaking down stereotypes. He said WYN succeeds at creating a non-judgmental atmosphere where children can interact with positive role models.

“My internship at Western Youth Network gave me field experience working with a diverse group of children. I hope that the skills and experience I gained there will help me in becoming a potential job prospect in the future,” Tobin said.

Ultimately, Tobin wants to assist youth in the judicial system. He plans to apply for jobs with probation offices, nonprofits or organizations that help rehabilitate youth offenders.

“It is very important to me that my work is able to positively change someone’s life and that it is meaningful,” Tobin said.

Tobin received financial support for his internship through the State Employees’ Credit Union (SECU) Public Service Fellows program awarded through Appalachian’s Career Development Center. SECU funding covers costs such as gas, food and rent to make internships more affordable.

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