By Harleen Kaur
During a difficult period in my life, when I was dealing with serious health issues, uncertainty, and self-doubt, people often told me, “Life has bigger plans for you than you could ever imagine.” At the time, I didn’t fully grasp what that meant–but today, living this full-circle moment, I do.
My career journey began as a Seed intern at MultiCare during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, a time when finding internships felt almost impossible. My internship experience carried me through uncertainty and growth. It ultimately led me to where I am today: a Volunteer Engagement Manager at MultiCare, where I had the privilege of mentoring a Seed intern of my own during the summer of 2025.
I grew up in Auburn, WA, and giving back to my community has always been a part of who I am. I spent my early years volunteering at the Auburn Food Bank, Relay for Life, Black Diamond Labor Days, and summer tennis camps. Serving others taught me the importance of planting seeds for those who come after us–and this value has guided me through every stage of my journey.
During the pandemic, I was a student at Pacific Lutheran University, searching for direction as internship opportunities dwindled. In 2021, I discovered Seed Internships- program that immediately resonated with me. Offered through Degrees of Change, Seed Internships is rooted in leadership and community impact, aiming to empower emerging professionals from underrepresented backgrounds to thrive and give back. Its mission aligned perfectly with my values.
Through Seed, I was placed at MultiCare as an administrative intern. I contributed to projects like revamping the website, creating guidebooks, and drafting proposals for new programs. My supervisor became a mentor, taking time to understand my interests in marketing, nonprofit leadership, and human resources—guiding me in ways that shaped my professional path.
Harleen Kaur interacting with volunteers at MultiCare Capital Medical Center. (Photo by Krisy Rachal)
A Life-Changing Challenge
That same year, life threw me a challenge I could never have anticipated. I was diagnosed with a stage 2 brain tumor and faced the reality of undergoing brain surgery within months. Recovery was tough —and it remains a long, painful journey, both physically and mentally.As a result, I had to take a six-month leave of absence from school to focus on recovery. It was the most difficult period of my life, but it changed me in the best way. Surgery and recovery taught me to be fearless, to find strength in the face of uncertainty, and to never give up on my dreams.
Returning to college after that break wasn’t easy, but I was determined to continue my journey- now with a new perspective on life and a deeper confidence in who I was. I learned to celebrate every small victory, from returning to class to simply believing in myself again.
In 2024, I graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Marketing and HR and a minor in Data Science. In 2025, I proudly earned my Master of Science in Marketing Analytics. These milestones weren’t just academic achievements; they were personal triumphs that proved resilience could carry me through anything.
My goals never changed: I wanted to grow into a leader who transforms and inspires others.
My Full Circle Moment
After graduating, I was hired by MultiCare as a Volunteer Engagement Manager. After interning with MultiCare and surviving a serious health scare, being hired felt like more than just a job. It was a deeply personal triumph and a chance to give back. Every day, I get to work with people who give back to the community–a role that feels like the greatest gift. I love being part of their stories, helping them find purpose in service, and working alongside a diverse and inclusive team that feels like family.
MultiCare Volunteer Services team at a staff retreat. (Photo by Krisy Rachal)
And now, I find myself on the other side of the Seed Internships journey, supervising a Seed intern in our office. It feels like the perfect full-circle moment–proof that everything happens for a reason. I get to mentor and guide the next generation of leaders, making sure their internship is meaningful, supportive, and inspiring, just like mine was.
Together, we tackled two major projects: the New Volunteer Orientation and a Volunteer Documentary. We held weekly check-ins to align goals and reflect on progress. Taking on this
role challenged me to grow as a leader, and I leaned on my own experience as a Seed intern to create a space where learning and growth could flourish.
This chapter of my journey has been deeply rewarding. It’s proof that when you give back, life finds a way to give back to you.
Lessons Learned and Advice for Others
One piece of advice my college mentor gave me has stayed with me: “Be fearless. You have a seat at the table because you bring something special. Never be afraid to use your voice.”
My Seed internship taught me how to work with diverse teams, speak up with confidence, and embrace my leadership potential. Today, as I mentor others, I carry those same lessons forward.
If my story proves anything, it’s that you never know where life will take you. Seed Internships planted the first seeds of my professional journey, and now I get to help plant those seeds for someone else. And that, to me, is the greatest reward.
Harleen Kaur is a Volunteer Engagement Manager at MultiCare Health System, a graduate of Pacific Lutheran University, and a 2021 Seed Internships alum. She is passionate about empowering future Seed interns and aims to inspire growth, build trust, and a culture of collaboration.
Featured image: Harleen Kaur, Volunteer Engagement Manager at Multicare Health System. (Photo courtesy of Harleen Kaur)
Sign up for our eNews to learn more about our students, alumni, and programs.
Follow us on Instagram, LinkedIn or Facebook for weekly photos and videos!