Name: Jadyn Schultis
Hometown: Diller, Nebraska
Affiliated Fund: Diller Community Foundation Fund
School: graduated from University of Nebraska – Lincoln
What excites you most about returning for another summer as a Hometown Intern?
I’m excited about the role I’ve been given this summer. Instead of being a full-time intern, I have the opportunity to serve as an intern supervisor for those working in Diller. I’m looking forward to supporting and sharing this experience with them, knowing they’ll do amazing things.
What did you learn about yourself and your community during your internship last summer?
Over the summers, I learned that Diller is a powerful small town always striving for growth. So many people here served as incredible role models and supported me through numerous projects. Because of this, I’ve grown more confident and motivated to make a difference in Diller.
If you were describing your hometown to a potential visitor, what would you say?
If I were describing my hometown to a potential visitor, I’d say it’s a place where music plays on Main Street and you’re always greeted with a smile or a wave. It’s a community that values what it has while constantly working toward a brighter future.
Everyone has gifts and talents to share. What do you hope to share with your hometown this summer?
This summer, I hope to share everything I love about this internship and town with those just beginning to see it too. I want to use my passion for Diller and ABCD to spark excitement in others while reminding them that our town is already special as it is.
What should older adults know about your generation of Nebraskans?
My generation is powerful and ready to spark changes in all that they do.
How does belonging play a role in your attachment to your hometown?
I feel that it is the most important part of my love for Diller. If it weren’t for DCFF asking me to come home, I’m not sure I would have ever discovered the passion I have for Diller. Even better, they continue to reach out to more and more individuals, constantly expressing how much each individual has a truly amazing place to call home.
What are your hopes and dreams for the future of your community?
My dream is that Diller continues to be a place where people feel connected and cherished. That they never lose their ability to dream big and find individuals willing to create impacts wherever they go.
What are you looking for in a place to call home?
Everything I ever looked for in a place to call home was right where I left it. I am so excited to finally say I have moved back home and plan on staying right where I am!
If you were designing a future for yourself in your hometown, what would that look like?
I’ve spent the last three summers questioning and wondering where I would go if it wasn’t Diller. After I graduated college, I knew my path was clear. DCFF had spent three years making sure I knew how welcomed and loved I was. I cannot wait to continually be involved in Diller’s growth.
What’s a piece of advice you have for first year Hometown Interns?
My advice would be to simply be who you are and say yes to every opportunity that comes your way, even the small things. When I began as an intern four years ago, I would have never dreamed of the opportunities I’ve been given. Even as I worked each summer, I didn’t know that everything I did would spark change along the way. Be unforgivingly yourself and confidently step into the unknown.
